Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet

Name: Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dry lentils; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 carrot, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet when I want a hearty yet healthy meal. The combination of roasted vegetables and protein-packed lentils creates a satisfying dish that never fails to impress. Not only is it colorful and nutritious, but it's also incredibly easy to prepare. I often find myself experimenting with different seasonal vegetables, which adds an exciting twist every time I make it. It has quickly become a staple in my kitchen, and I can’t wait for you to try it too!

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:43:01.338Z

When I first made this Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors melded together. The key is roasting the vegetables until they're tender and slightly caramelized, which brings out their natural sweetness. I often use bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots, but you can easily swap in your favorites!

One of my favorite tips is to season the lentils while they cook, allowing them to absorb the spices and herbs fully. This extra layer of flavor truly makes the dish unforgettable and keeps me coming back for more.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Colorful, nutrient-packed vegetables that are full of flavor
Protein-rich lentils that keep you satisfied
Versatile recipe that allows for seasonal vegetable swaps

      

Ingredient Insights

The choice of lentils is crucial for this dish, as they provide not only protein but also a hearty texture. I recommend using green or brown lentils for this recipe, as they hold their shape well during cooking. Avoid red lentils in this case, as they tend to become mushy; instead, you want the lentils to complement the crisp roasted vegetables.

Using fresh, seasonal vegetables elevates the flavor and nutrition of your Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet. The sweet notes of bell peppers can balance the earthy lentils, while the zucchini adds a tender bite. For a twist, consider incorporating seasonal vegetables such as asparagus in the spring or squash in the fall. Each variation brings a new dimension to the dish.

Roasting Techniques

When roasting vegetables, achieving a caramelized exterior is key to enhancing their natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Spread the veggies evenly on the baking sheet to promote even cooking; if they are too crowded, they will steam instead of roast. You can check for doneness by looking for golden edges and a tender, fork-ready texture after about 20 minutes.

If you prefer a more complex flavor, try tossing the veggies with a splash of balsamic vinegar before roasting. This adds an unexpected tangy sweetness that complements the lentils beautifully. If you find your veggies aren't browning as expected, consider increasing the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last few minutes of cooking.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet.

Ingredients

1 cup dry lentils
2 cups vegetable broth
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 carrot, chopped
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Be sure to wash and prepare your vegetables before starting!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delightful Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Roast the Veggies

Toss the diced bell pepper, zucchini, carrot, and onion with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes or until tender.

Cook the Lentils

In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the lentils, reduce the heat, and simmer for 25 minutes or until tender. Stir in the minced garlic just before removing from heat.

Combine

Once the lentils are cooked, combine them with the roasted vegetables and mix well.

Serve

Serve warm and enjoy your delicious and nutritious meal!

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips

Experiment with different vegetables to keep the dish exciting! Bell peppers, asparagus, or sweet potatoes work wonderfully.

Storage and Meal Prep

This Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet is perfect for meal prep! You can cook a big batch and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to reheat it, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth to prevent it from drying out.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will retain its flavor and texture for about 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

Customizing Your Skillet

Feel free to customize this recipe according to your dietary preferences. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as written. Additionally, for a Mediterranean twist, you can add feta cheese or kalamata olives once the dish is combined for an extra layer of flavor.

Herbs can also be swapped out based on what you have on hand. While thyme lends an earthy aroma, fresh rosemary or oregano can offer a different taste profile. I often switch things up depending on the herbs thriving in my garden, so don’t hesitate to experiment!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dry ones?

Yes, you can use canned lentils to save time. Just drain and rinse them before adding to the skillet.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are gluten-free, making it a safe choice for gluten-sensitive individuals.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This skillet pairs well with quinoa or a side salad for a complete meal.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.