Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl

Name: Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup lentils (green or brown); 2 cups water; 2 medium zucchini, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 4 cups cooked grains (quinoa, brown rice, or farro); Tahini dressing (1/4 cup tahini, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 garlic clove minced, water to thin)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love how versatile this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl is! It’s my go-to choice when I want a meal packed with flavor and nutrition. By roasting the veggies, I enhance their natural sweetness and create a lovely contrast to the nutty lentils. The addition of a creamy dressing ties everything together beautifully. I love that it’s easy to prepare and can be modified based on seasonal vegetables or what’s in my fridge, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or meal prep!

Created by

Margaret Hill

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:46:13.430Z

One of my favorite culinary adventures was when I decided to combine roasted vegetables with lentils for a hearty grain bowl. I’ve always found lentils to be a fantastic source of protein and fiber, but pairing them with colorful roasted veggies brought my lunch game to a whole new level. I roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots, which not only added vibrant colors but also developed a sweet, caramelized depth of flavor.

After experimenting with different dressings, I discovered a tangy tahini sauce that complements the earthiness of the lentils perfectly. It’s a simple mix of tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. Adjusting the consistency with a bit of water or olive oil made it irresistibly creamy. This bowl is not just satisfying; it’s a comforting reminder of how wholesome ingredients can come together to create something truly delightful.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and nutritious with a balance of protein and veggies
Customizable to include your favorite seasonal ingredients
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prepping ahead of time

      

Ingredient Insights

The choice of lentils is essential for achieving the desired texture and flavor in this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl. Green or brown lentils work best as they maintain their shape after cooking and add a heartiness to the dish. If you're looking for a quicker option, red lentils can be used; however, they will soften significantly and become mushy, which might alter the overall bowl texture.

Choosing the right vegetables can elevate your meal. Seasonal vegetables not only taste better but can also change the nutritional profile of your bowl. For instance, incorporating sweet potatoes in the fall or asparagus in the spring can add unique flavors. Aim for a variety of colors; this enhances both the visual appeal and the nutrient diversity. Don't hesitate to swap in any vegetables you have on hand – experimenting is encouraged!

Roasting Techniques

Roasting vegetables is a technique that enhances their natural sweetness and flavor complexity. To achieve optimal caramelization, ensure that the vegetables are spread out evenly on the baking sheet and not overcrowded. This allows for better airflow, which leads to the desirable golden-brown edges and a more robust flavor. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of roasting; they should be fork-tender and slightly charred but not burnt.

If you're short on time, consider pre-chopping your vegetables and storing them in the fridge for up to three days before you plan to make this bowl. Just remember to toss them with olive oil and seasoning just before roasting. For a smokier flavor, you might also sprinkle some smoked paprika or add crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat!

Dressing Tips

The tahini dressing is a crucial component that enhances the bowl's overall richness. If you find the dressing too thick, you can thin it out with additional water or a splash of olive oil. For extra zest, add a pinch of lemon zest or a dash of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. This dressing can also be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

If you're looking for a nut-free alternative to tahini, sunflower seed butter works wonderfully in this recipe. It maintains the creamy consistency and adds a unique flavor twist. Additionally, try incorporating herbs like cilantro or parsley into the dressing for a fresh kick that brightens the whole bowl!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl:

Ingredients

1 cup lentils (green or brown)
2 cups water
2 medium zucchini, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
4 cups cooked grains (quinoa, brown rice, or farro)
Tahini dressing (1/4 cup tahini, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 garlic clove minced, water to thin)

Make sure to adjust seasonings according to your taste!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl:

Cook the Lentils

In a medium saucepan, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until tender. Drain any excess water and set aside.

Prepare the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the diced zucchini, bell pepper, and sliced carrots with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Roast the Veggies

Spread the seasoned vegetables on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and enough water to reach your desired consistency. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Assemble the Bowl

In each serving bowl, layer the cooked grains, lentils, and roasted vegetables. Drizzle with the tahini dressing and enjoy.

Feel free to add avocado, nuts, or seeds for extra toppings!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the roasted vegetables or drizzle some sriracha over the finished bowl.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can prepare each component separately and store them in the refrigerator. Cooked lentils and grains can stay fresh for up to five days, and the roasted veggies can be stored for three to four days without losing much flavor. When you’re ready to eat, simply heat everything up in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

For even more convenience, consider freezing the components separately. Lentils and grains freeze exceptionally well, making this bowl an ideal prepared meal. Just remember to cool everything completely before transferring to airtight containers for freezing. You can also reheat the roasted vegetables directly from the freezer, just give them a few extra minutes in the oven to ensure they crisp back up.

Serving Suggestions

While this bowl is perfectly satisfying on its own, there are various toppings you can add to boost flavor and texture. Try adding crumbled feta cheese or a handful of toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra crunch. Fresh herbs such as basil or mint can also brighten the dish and add freshness with every bite. You can serve it with a side of pita bread for a complete meal experience.

For a more wholesome option, consider adding a poached or fried egg on top. The runny yolk melds beautifully with the dressing and provides added protein. If you're feeling adventurous, drizzle some sriracha for a kick, or sprinkle on some microgreens for a vibrant finish. The possibilities are endless and engaging your palate differently each time makes the dish even more engaging!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils?

Yes, canned lentils can be used for convenience, just rinse and drain them before adding to the bowl.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

You can use any seasonal vegetables like broccoli, butternut squash, or sweet potatoes!

→ How can I meal prep this dish?

You can prepare the lentils and roast the veggies in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble when ready to eat.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

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