Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet

Name: Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium zucchini, chopped; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 carrot, sliced; 1 red onion, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making this Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet because it’s a delightful medley of flavors that satisfies my cravings for comfort food without sacrificing health. The vibrant veggies blend perfectly with protein-rich lentils, creating a hearty one-pan meal. The best part? It's quick to prepare and packed with nutrients! Whether I'm serving it for dinner or enjoying the leftovers for lunch the next day, this dish never fails to impress. Let me share how this simple yet satisfying recipe can brighten up your weeknight meals.

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:31:16.273Z

When I first attempted this recipe, I was blown away by how simply roasting vegetables could elevate the flavors of lentils. I tried various combinations, but my favorite includes bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots for a colorful and nutritious dish. Roasting enhances their natural sweetness, making them irresistible!

One tip I discovered is to season the vegetables generously before roasting. It not only adds depth but also complements the earthy lentils beautifully. Believe me, this dish is perfect any day of the week, and the leftovers are even better!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant, roasted vegetables in every bite
Hearty lentils provide satisfying protein
One-pan meal for easy clean-up

      

The Importance of Timing

Timing is crucial in ensuring that both the lentils and the roasted vegetables achieve their optimal texture and flavor. When you start roasting the vegetables, ensure that your oven is fully preheated. This helps to caramelize the natural sugars in the veggies, resulting in a sweeter and richer flavor profile. If you roast them for at least 20 minutes, they'll develop slightly charred edges that add depth to the dish.

While the veggies are boosting their flavors in the oven, you can simultaneously cook your lentils. They typically take about 20 minutes to become tender. To check for doneness, taste a few lentils. They should be tender but still firm enough to hold their shape. Overcooked lentils can turn mushy and alter the dish's overall texture.

Ingredient Highlights

Lentils are not only a great source of plant-based protein but also provide essential nutrients like iron and fiber. This makes them an excellent choice for a hearty vegetarian meal. In this recipe, the lentils absorb the flavors from the vegetable broth during cooking, infusing them with delightful taste that complements the roasted veggies perfectly. Opt for green or brown lentils for a firm texture, while red lentils will cook down more quickly and become softer.

Regarding vegetables, you can customize your mix based on seasonal availability or personal preference. For instance, sweet potatoes, asparagus, or even Brussels sprouts can be excellent substitutions. Just remember that different vegetables may require slight adjustments in roasting time. Always keep an eye on them; they should be golden brown and tender when they’re ready to be combined with the lentils.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet:

Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 medium zucchini, chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
1 carrot, sliced
1 red onion, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to use fresh vegetables for the best taste and presentation!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Roast the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the zucchini, bell pepper, carrot, and onion. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat the vegetables evenly. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes.

Cook the Lentils

While the vegetables roast, add lentils and vegetable broth to a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for 20 minutes or until the lentils are tender but not mushy.

Combine and Serve

Once the vegetables are done roasting, combine them with the cooked lentils in a large skillet. Stir well and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

This dish is best enjoyed warm, but it can also be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or add spices like cumin for extra flavor. Serve with a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing twist.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

This Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet makes for a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can prepare both the lentils and roasted vegetables in advance. Once cooled, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This is perfect for meal prep—just reheat the combination in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, and enjoy a quick, healthy meal.

If you’d like to freeze this dish, I recommend separating the components. The lentils freeze well in a ziplock bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. For the veggies, ensure they cool completely before freezing to preserve their texture. When you're ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and heat together in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can stand alone as a satisfying meal, but there are various ways to elevate it. Consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice to add extra complexity and nutrition. A dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese can also add creaminess and a flavor contrast that beautifully balances the roasted vegetables.

If you're interested in a bit of spice, try topping your skillet with some sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of Sriracha. Fresh herbs, like dill or cilantro, can also brighten the dish with their fresh aromas. I find that a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving enhances the flavors, making the dish even more vibrant and refreshing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dry ones?

Yes, canned lentils can be used; just rinse them and add them towards the end to heat through.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add any vegetables you like, such as broccoli, spinach, or sweet potatoes.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This dish is 100% plant-based, making it perfect for vegans and vegetarians.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the vegetable mixture before roasting.