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 green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 yellow bell pepper, diced; 1 medium zucchini, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy Creations Studio

I absolutely love making this Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet when I'm looking for a healthy and hearty meal. The combination of roasted vegetables with protein-packed lentils makes for a dish that is not only satisfying but incredibly flavorful. Each time I make it, I experiment with different seasonal veggies, allowing the dish to change with what I have on hand. It's a versatile recipe that is useful for meal prep and perfect for any day of the week.

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2026-01-16T01:13:12.573Z

When I first crafted this Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet, I wanted something nourishing that could come together quickly. After multiple attempts, I discovered that roasting the vegetables first enhances their natural sweetness and brings out a delightful complexity in flavor. Utilizing a mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots adds color and vibrant textures that keep me coming back for more.

Another tip I learned was to season the lentils well; they serve as the perfect canvas for the flavors of the vegetables. A dash of smoked paprika and fresh herbs really elevate the dish. This skillet is not only delicious but also an easy way to incorporate more plant-based meals into my diet.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Colorful medley of roasted vegetables that brightens your plate
Nutritious lentils provide a filling and protein-rich base
Great for batch cooking and perfect for leftover lunches

      

Perfecting Your Roasted Vegetables

Roasting vegetables not only enhances their natural sweetness but also adds a delightful char that elevates the overall flavor of the dish. For optimal results, ensure you cut the vegetables into uniform pieces, about 1-inch, to promote even cooking. Don't overcrowd the baking sheet; this allows the veggies to caramelize rather than steam, resulting in a more satisfying texture. Keep an eye on them while roasting; they should be vibrant and slightly browned around the edges, typically ready in about 20 minutes at 425°F (220°C).

If you're feeling adventurous or want to cater to what you have on hand, substitute any sturdy vegetable. Sweet potatoes, broccoli, or cauliflower can easily replace the zucchini or bell peppers, maintaining the dish's essence while providing a unique flavor profile. Just remember to adjust cooking times slightly, depending on the vegetable's density—thicker vegetables may need more time in the oven.

The Role of Lentils

Lentils are the backbone of this dish, offering a hearty and protein-rich base. Green or brown lentils maintain their shape beautifully during cooking, unlike red lentils, which tend to break down and create a mushy texture. This characteristic makes them perfect for this skillet dish, lending both substance and a satisfying bite. Make sure to rinse them thoroughly before cooking to remove any debris, and check for any small stones that can sometimes be found in the mix.

To enhance the flavors of the lentils, consider adding spices or aromatics during cooking. A bay leaf can infuse a subtle earthy aroma, or a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end can brighten the dish up. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can sauté some onions before adding the vegetable broth, which creates a flavor base that adds depth to the overall dish.

Storing and Reheating

This Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To keep the vegetables from losing their texture, it's best not to mix everything too thoroughly before storing; this way, you can reheat separate components to maintain their integrity. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, gently heat them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to revive the moisture without overcooking the ingredients.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Allow it to cool completely before portioning into freezer-safe containers, which will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it up on the stove, adding a touch of olive oil to bring life back to the roasted veggies. This makes for a perfect quick lunch or dinner option when you're pressed for time.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet.

Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
1 medium zucchini, diced
2 carrots, sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to preheat your oven before starting to prep your ingredients!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet.

Roast the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, combine the diced bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Spread the vegetables evenly on a baking sheet and roast them for about 20 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.

Cook the Lentils

While the vegetables are roasting, bring the vegetable broth to a boil in a medium pot. Add the rinsed lentils, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook for 20 minutes or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid if necessary.

Combine and Serve

Once the vegetables are done roasting, combine them with the cooked lentils in a large skillet. Stir in minced garlic and mix well, allowing the flavors to meld for about 5 minutes on medium heat. Adjust seasoning if necessary and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your hearty and nutritious Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the vegetables based on what you have available. Broccoli, asparagus, or butternut squash can be excellent additions as well.

Additional Flavor Enhancements

Consider adding a splash of acidity to brighten the flavors in your skillet. A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can lift the dish, contrasting beautifully with the rich roasted flavors. Alternatively, a drizzle of your favorite vinaigrette can add a fresh twist, especially if you’re using more hearty vegetables like Brussels sprouts or butternut squash.

Herbs can also play a vital role in evolving this dish's flavor palette. While fresh parsley is a classic garnish, thyme or basil could also complement the roasted vegetables nicely. Chopped fresh herbs incorporated directly into the dish just before serving will invigorate the taste while adding a burst of color, enhancing the dish’s visual appeal.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, making it a great option for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. To double the batch, simply increase the amounts of lentils and vegetables while keeping the same proportions of spices and broth. As your skillet gets larger, you may want to cook the vegetables on two baking sheets to ensure they roast properly without steaming.

If you're looking to reduce the portions, you can halve the quantities but still follow the same cooking instructions. It’s important to check the lentils and vegetables for doneness a bit earlier when scaling down to avoid overcooking. Keeping an eye on them as they cook will result in perfectly balanced flavors and textures each time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned lentils to save time. Just rinse and drain them, and add them to the skillet along with the roasted vegetables.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Absolutely! This Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this skillet keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.

→ What can I serve on the side?

A simple green salad or some crusty bread would complement this dish nicely!