Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet

Name: Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I love experimenting in the kitchen, and this Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet has become one of my favorite go-to recipes. It’s colorful, nutritious, and bursting with flavor. As I the lentils roast alongside a medley of seasonal vegetables, I can’t help but be excited about the wholesome meal soon to come. The combination of spices enhances every bite, and it’s so easy to make. In just 30 minutes, I create a fulfilling dish that not only satisfies my hunger but also delights my senses.

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:22:13.586Z

When I first tried making this dish, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors meld. Roasting the veggies really enhances their natural sweetness, and pairing them with lentils creates a hearty and satisfying meal. I've experimented with different vegetable combinations, but my favorites include bell peppers and zucchini for their vibrant colors and textures.

One tip I always recommend is to keep an eye on the lentils—overcooking them can lead to mushiness. The key is to have them tender but firm, so they soak up the flavor from the spices and the veggies without losing their integrity. This dish is a true triumph of simplicity!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Nutritious and filling, perfect for meal prep
Versatile, allowing for seasonal veggies of your choice
Great balance of flavors with a hint of spice

      

Choosing the Right Lentils

For this Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet, green and brown lentils are ideal due to their balanced texture and flavor. They hold their shape well during cooking, offering a satisfying bite without becoming mushy. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute with French lentils, which are slightly firmer and nuttier, but avoid red lentils as they break down too much and won’t add the right body to your dish.

When rinsing lentils, take a moment to sort through them for any debris or small stones. Rinsing is crucial to eliminate any dust or impurities, ensuring your dish maintains a clean flavor. Properly cooked lentils should be tender yet firm; aim for about 15 minutes of simmering, checking for doneness by tasting a few.

Veggie Variations and Creative Swaps

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Seasonal vegetables can elevate the dish's flavor profile significantly. Try adding carrots or bell peppers in the winter, or asparagus and snap peas in the spring. Each vegetable brings its unique taste and nutrients, allowing you to customize the recipe according to what you have on hand or prefer.

If you're looking for a boost in protein or heft, consider mixing in cooked quinoa or chickpeas just before serving. Not only would this enhance the nutritional value, but it would also add a delightful texture contrast, making every bite exciting.

Storing and Reheating

This Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet is perfect for meal prep! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently to warm evenly. If it appears dry, a splash of vegetable broth can help revive the dish without compromising flavor.

For long-term storage, consider freezing portions for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat as mentioned. Keep an eye out for any texture changes in the roasted veggies; they might soften slightly, but the flavors will remain robust and delightful.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Steps to Prepare

Prepare the Lentils

In a pot, combine the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until tender.

Roast the Vegetables

Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the bell pepper, zucchini, tomatoes, onion, and garlic in a bowl with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Once the lentils are cooked and the veggies are roasted, mix them together in the pot. Stir gently to combine, then serve warm.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

You can customize this dish by adding your favorite herbs or swapping in different vegetables based on what’s in season.

Flavor Boosting Tips

To enhance the flavors in your Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet, consider adding herbs such as thyme or basil right before serving. Fresh herbs elevate any dish, adding brightness and depth which complements the smokiness of the paprika beautifully. A squeeze of lemon juice can also uplift the overall flavor, tying the components together.

If you enjoy a bit of heat, try incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the vegetable mix before roasting. This can add an exciting kick to each mouthful without overshadowing the other flavors. Just remember to start small; you can always add more if desired.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider serving the Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet alongside a simple mixed green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. This adds freshness and contrasts beautifully with the hearty, savory elements of the skillet. You could also serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for added texture and flavor integration.

To turn this dish into a more substantial recipe, serve it with warm pita bread or rustic whole-grain bread. Spread a little hummus on the bread for a delightful combination, enhancing both flavor and nutritional value. This makes for a fulfilling lunch or dinner option that will leave you satisfied.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance! Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.

→ What can I substitute for lentils?

You can use cooked quinoa or chickpeas as an alternative for lentils. It will still be delicious!

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free. Just make sure the vegetable broth is certified gluten-free.

→ Can I freeze this meal?

Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Just make sure to store it in airtight containers and consume within 2 months.