Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl

Name: Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown); 2 cups assorted vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, zucchini), chopped; 1 cup cooked whole grains (quinoa, brown rice, or farro); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 avocado, sliced; Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro), for garnish; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making a Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl, especially when I'm looking for a nourishing yet satisfying meal. The combination of roasted vegetables, tender lentils, and grains creates a delightful blend of flavors and textures. I often prepare this dish on busy weekdays because it’s not only quick to assemble, but it also holds up well in the fridge for meal prep. A dash of my favorite dressing on top adds the perfect finishing touch, making every bite a sunburst of deliciousness that brightens my day.

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-18T14:16:17.079Z

Creating the Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl has become a staple in my kitchen, especially for its simplicity and nutritious appeal. The act of roasting the vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, and pairing them with lentils and whole grains offers a robust and filling meal. I've found that experimenting with various seasonal vegetables keeps the dish refreshing and exciting each time.

One specific detail I've discovered is that a splash of lemon juice right before serving brightens the entire bowl. This zesty addition not only enhances the flavors but also adds a new layer of freshness. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant colors and textures make every bowl visually appealing
Packed with protein and fiber for lasting energy
Endlessly customizable with seasonal toppings and dressings

      

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in the Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl plays a crucial role in both flavor and nutrition. The lentils not only provide a hearty protein base but also add a subtle earthiness that complements the sweetness of the roasted vegetables. If you're short on lentils, consider substituting chickpeas or black beans for a different texture and taste while still maintaining protein levels.

The vegetables you choose can drastically alter the bowl's overall flavor profile. Seasonal vegetables are ideal; for instance, butternut squash or Brussels sprouts in the fall add a sweet, nutty taste, while spring vegetables like asparagus or peas bring a fresh brightness. Mixing different colors also enhances visual appeal, making your meal more inviting.

Cooking and Prep Tips

When roasting vegetables, ensure they are cut into uniform sizes to promote even cooking. A good rule of thumb is to aim for 1-inch pieces. This size allows them to caramelize nicely during the 20-minute roasting period, providing a beautiful golden hue and delightful texture. If you're recipe-prepping ahead, roast extra veggies and store them in an airtight container; they'll maintain their flavor for up to four days in the fridge.

Cooking grains requires a bit of attention to detail as well. Rinse your quinoa thoroughly before cooking to eliminate its natural coating, called saponin, which can taste bitter. For perfect grains, use a 2:1 water-to-grain ratio and simmer on low until fluffy. If time is tight, consider using pre-cooked grains for ultimate convenience—just heat and incorporate them into your bowl.

Ingredients

For the Bowl

1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)
2 cups assorted vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, zucchini), chopped
1 cup cooked whole grains (quinoa, brown rice, or farro)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 avocado, sliced
Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro), for garnish

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to mix and match vegetables based on what you have on hand!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Roast the Vegetables

Toss the chopped vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.

Cook the Grains and Lentils

If not already cooked, prepare the whole grains and lentils according to package instructions.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

Assemble the Bowl

In serving bowls, layer the cooked grains, lentils, and roasted vegetables. Top with sliced avocado, drizzle with the dressing, and garnish with fresh herbs.

Serve immediately and enjoy a wholesome meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to play with spices—adding cumin or smoked paprika can bring new flavors to your roasted veggies.

Customizing Your Bowl

The Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl is incredibly versatile, making it an excellent choice for personal preference. You can switch up the dressing to change the flavor dynamics significantly. A tahini-based dressing or a spicy harissa can provide a creamy or zesty kick, respectively. Alternatively, try adding nuts or seeds on top for extra crunch and healthy fats.

Don't forget that different herbs can give your bowl a fresh twist. While I love using parsley or cilantro, don't hesitate to try basil or dill for a unique flavor profile. For a Mediterranean flair, toss in some feta cheese or olives, balancing beautifully with the roasted vegetables and lentils.

Storage and Meal Prep

One of the best things about this grain bowl is how well it stores. You can prepare a big batch and keep the components separate in your fridge for up to five days. This prevents sogginess in your grains and veggies and makes it easy to grab a healthy meal on the go. Just assemble your bowl when ready to eat, adding dressing last to keep everything fresh.

For longer storage, freezing the roasted vegetables is an option but be aware they may lose some texture upon thawing. For the best results, you can pre-cook your lentils and grains and freeze them in portions. When reheating, I recommend doing so gently in a pan with a splash of water to ensure they don’t dry out.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind that they may require slightly less roasting time.

→ How long does this bowl keep in the fridge?

It can last up to 4 days in the fridge, making it great for meal prep.

→ What can I add to boost the protein content?

You can include grilled chicken, chickpeas, or nuts for an extra protein punch.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes! All ingredients are plant-based, making it perfect for vegan diets.