Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl

Name: Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups of chopped broccoli; 1 cup of diced carrots; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 zucchini, sliced; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup of cooked lentils; 1 cup of quinoa or brown rice; 2 tablespoons of tahini; 1 tablespoon of lemon juice; 1 tablespoon of maple syrup; 1 clove of garlic, minced; Water to thin

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love creating meals that are both nourishing and satisfying, and this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl checks all the boxes. With its vibrant mix of roasted vegetables and hearty lentils, it’s a dish that not only fills me up but also delights my taste buds. I often prepare it on busy weeknights when I crave something healthy yet flavorful. Plus, it’s a great way to use whatever veggies I have on hand, making it adaptable to different seasons and preferences.

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:46:25.373Z

When I first experimented with this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl, I was pleasantly surprised by how the flavors meld together. Roasting the vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, while the lentils add a protein-packed punch. I’ve found that using a combination of different veggies, like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots, creates a more complex taste and texture.

One of my go-to tips for this recipe is to add the spices directly to the veggies before roasting. This step enhances their flavor profile and makes sure each bite is bursting with taste. Trust me, it elevates the entire dish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A colorful and healthy meal in a bowl
Versatile ingredients that you can customize
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep

      

Selecting the Right Vegetables

Choosing the right vegetables can elevate your Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl. While the recipe suggests broccoli, carrots, bell pepper, and zucchini, feel free to experiment with seasonal produce like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or butternut squash. The key is to select vegetables that roast well, developing a caramelized exterior while remaining tender inside. Aim for a mix of colors to enhance both the visual appeal and nutritional value of your bowl.

When prepping your vegetables, ensure even sizes for uniform roasting. Dicing them into similar-sized pieces means they’ll cook at the same rate, preventing any undercooked or overly charred bits. For instance, cutting carrots into smaller cubes compared to large florets of broccoli might lead to uneven texture. A good rule of thumb is to chop vegetables to about 1-inch pieces.

Perfecting the Grains and Lentils

The choice of grains impacts the overall texture of your grain bowl. Quinoa brings a fluffy yet slightly nutty flavor, while brown rice offers a hearty chewiness. Always rinse quinoa before cooking to remove its bitter coating, saponin. For brown rice, a 2:1 water-to-rice ratio is ideal, and it typically takes about 45-50 minutes to cook. Once either is ready, combining them with lentils not only adds protein but also creates a satisfying texture contrast.

If you're looking to save time, consider batch-cooking grains and lentils in advance. They store well in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze portions for longer storage. Just remember to thaw in the fridge the night before you plan to assemble your bowl; this creates a quick and convenient meal prep solution for busy nights.

Adjusting the Dressing to Your Taste

The tahini dressing is where you can truly make this bowl your own. Adjusting its thickness is key; if you prefer a drizzlier consistency, add more water. For an extra zing, consider incorporating additional herbs like dill or a pinch of cayenne for spice. I love to mix in a little grated fresh ginger for a warming kick, especially in colder months. Don't hesitate to taste the dressing as you go, ensuring it’s balanced to your liking.

If you're looking for alternatives to tahini due to allergies or preferences, almond butter or sunflower seed butter can serve as excellent substitutes. While they provide slightly different flavors, both still deliver creaminess and richness. Additionally, this dressing can be used not only for this grain bowl but also as a dip for fresh vegetables or a drizzle over salads, maximizing its utility.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious bowl:

Vegetables

2 cups of chopped broccoli
1 cup of diced carrots
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 zucchini, sliced
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Grains and Legumes

1 cup of cooked lentils
1 cup of quinoa or brown rice

Dressing

2 tablespoons of tahini
1 tablespoon of lemon juice
1 tablespoon of maple syrup
1 clove of garlic, minced
Water to thin

Make sure to check your pantry for any additional spices or toppings you’d like to add!

Instructions

Follow these steps to whip up your delicious grain bowl:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare the vegetables.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, carrots, bell pepper, and zucchini. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss everything to make sure the veggies are well-coated.

Roast the Vegetables

Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for about 25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.

Cook the Grains

While the veggies are roasting, cook your quinoa or brown rice according to package instructions. Combine cooked lentils with the grains once they’re ready.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, minced garlic, and enough water to reach your desired consistency.

Assemble the Bowl

In serving bowls, layer the grain and lentil mixture, top it with the roasted vegetables, and drizzle with your tahini dressing.

Serve and Enjoy

Enjoy the bowl warm, garnished with any additional toppings you prefer, such as fresh herbs or seeds.

Feel free to get creative with your toppings!

Pro Tips

You can add any seasonal vegetables you prefer or even toss in some nuts or seeds for extra crunch.

Serving Suggestions

To make your Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl even more enticing, consider adding toppings that provide varying textures. Chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts introduce a satisfying crunch, while seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds add nutrition and additional flavor depth. A sprinkle of feta cheese or avocado slices can also enhance creaminess, taking the dish from simple to gourmet in just a few moments.

You can tailor your portion size depending on your appetite or meal needs. For a lighter lunch, a smaller bowl works well, whereas a larger serving can serve as a filling dinner. Pair it with a side salad or a piece of whole-grain bread to round out your meal.

Storage Tips

This bowl stores well, making it ideal for meal prep. After assembly, keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat; this prevents the grains and veggies from becoming soggy. The assembled bowl can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, microwave it for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to promote even heating.

You can also freeze individual portions; simply assemble the grains and vegetables, omitting the dressing. Seal in an airtight container or freezer bag, and use within 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and enjoy warm for a satisfying meal.

Variations to Try

For a protein boost, consider adding diced grilled chicken or chickpeas to your bowl. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also increase its satiety factor. Experimenting with flavorful spices like cumin or smoked paprika in your vegetable mix can also provide an exciting twist to the roasted flavor profile, delivering depth and richness.

Switching up the grain is another delightful way to change the palate; farro or barley can be wonderful alternatives to quinoa or brown rice. Each grain boasts its own flavor and texture, making every bowl a new experience while still providing a nutritious foundation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, canned lentils are a convenient option! Just rinse and drain them before adding to your bowl.

→ Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! The entire dish is plant-based and vegan.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add protein to this bowl?

Yes, grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu make great additions for extra protein.