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: 1 cup cooked lentils; 2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice; 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs for garnish (optional); 3 tablespoons tahini; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; 1 tablespoon water (adjust for consistency); Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love creating bowls that are both delicious and nourishing, and this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl is one of my favorites. With roasted vegetables, hearty lentils, and a base of whole grains, it’s a meal that satisfies my cravings for flavor and nutrition. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep, making it a go-to for busy weeks. Plus, the combination of textures and flavors brings me joy every time I take a bite.

Created by

Kayla Monroe

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:16:11.611Z

As I experimented with different grains and veggies, I discovered the magic of roasting. It enhances the natural sweetness of vegetables, and when paired with lentils, the result is an amazing flavor fusion. I found that using a variety of colorful vegetables not only makes the dish more visually appealing but also maximizes the nutritional benefits, ensuring a wholesome meal in every bowl.

One tip I absolutely swear by is to roast the vegetables until they’re slightly caramelized. This brings out their best flavors and adds a wonderful depth to the bowl. Pairing them with perfectly cooked lentils and grains results in a heartwarming dish that I keep coming back to!

        What You'll Love About This Recipe
        Bursting with flavor from roasted veggies and lentils
Versatile; use any grains you have on hand
Perfect for meal prep, making weeknight dinners easy

      

Choosing Your Grains

When preparing the Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl, the choice of grains plays a crucial role in texture and nutrition. Quinoa offers a light, fluffy texture and packs a protein punch, which can be particularly satisfying in combination with the hearty lentils. Brown rice, on the other hand, provides a chewy, nutty flavor that can complement the roasted veggies beautifully. Feel free to experiment with other grains like farro or barley if you have them on hand; each will lend a unique chewiness and flavor profile.

Cooking time is also important to consider: quinoa generally cooks in about 15 minutes, while brown rice usually requires 40-45 minutes. To ensure everything comes together smoothly, you can start cooking your grains before roasting your vegetables. This way, both components will be ready around the same time, ensuring your bowl is warm and freshly assembled.

Perfecting the Roasting Technique

Roasting vegetables may seem straightforward, but the technique can greatly elevate the flavors in your grain bowl. By tossing your mixed vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper, you're ensuring they not only achieve that golden-brown caramelization but also develop a sweeter, richer flavor profile. Keep an eye on them during the last 5 minutes of roasting to avoid overcooking; you’re aiming for tender, yet firm vegetables that still have a bit of bite.

To enhance the dish’s visual appeal and taste, consider adding a variety of colors and textures within your vegetable mix. For example, vibrant bell peppers bring sweetness, while zucchini adds moisture. Carrots can introduce an earthy note. I love adding Brussels sprouts for an extra kick. Just remember to chop them into similar sizes to ensure even roasting, which is key to achieving that delicious caramelization.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl is assembled, it's perfect for meal prep! Store individual portions in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. The tahini dressing can also be made in advance and stored separately; just give it a good stir before using, as separation is normal. If you're looking to freeze portions, consider leaving the dressing off until reheating, as it can alter the texture when frozen.

When you're ready to enjoy your bowl, reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. Serve it with garnishes like chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of nuts or seeds for added crunch and flavor. I often add avocado slices for creaminess; just be sure to add them right before serving to prevent browning.

Ingredients

For the Bowl

1 cup cooked lentils
2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice
2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons tahini
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 tablespoon water (adjust for consistency)
Salt to taste

Instructions

Roast the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.

Prepare the Quinoa or Rice

While the vegetables are roasting, cook your quinoa or brown rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, set aside.

Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, water, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. Adjust the water for your desired consistency.

Assemble the Bowl

In a large serving bowl, layer the quinoa or rice, followed by the cooked lentils and roasted vegetables. Drizzle with the tahini dressing and toss gently to combine.

Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh herbs if using, and enjoy your nourishing Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any seasonal veggies you have on hand. This recipe is customizable based on what you enjoy or have available.

Ingredient Benefits

The lentils in this grain bowl provide not only a hearty base but are also a great source of plant-based protein and fiber. They help to keep you full and satisfied while contributing essential nutrients like iron and folate. This makes the dish not only delicious but also energizing, especially for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Choosing fresh vegetables for roasting can make a significant difference in flavor. Seasonal vegetables not only taste better but also tend to be more affordable and packed with nutrients. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding seasonal additions like sweet potatoes in autumn or asparagus in spring to keep the dish interesting and fresh.

Tahini Dressing Variations

While the tahini dressing is creamy and delicious as written, you can easily customize it to suit your taste. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a squirt of Sriracha. Alternatively, blending in a bit of garlic or using roasted garlic instead of raw can give the dressing a deep, savory flavor that complements the roasted veggies beautifully.

If you prefer a nut-free alternative, consider using sunflower seed butter instead of tahini. It provides a similar creaminess and is just as easy to whip up. Additionally, for a tangier flavor, you might incorporate a spoonful of yogurt or a splash of vinegar to the dressing.

Scaling the Recipe

This Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl is easily scalable, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or meal prep. To scale up, simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need. Just be aware that with increased volume, roasting times may vary, and you may need to use multiple baking sheets to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking.

If you're looking to reduce the recipe, you can cut all ingredients in half, but also consider keeping the dressing quantity the same. The dressing enhances not just the flavor but also the overall moisture of the bowl, making it a worthwhile addition regardless of serving size.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this bowl ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the components separately and assemble them just before serving to keep everything fresh.

→ What other grains can I use?

You can substitute quinoa or brown rice with farro, barley, or any grain of your preference.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl is completely vegan and packed with plant-based protein.

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes! Just make sure to cook them thoroughly, and you may need to adjust the roasting time.