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 lentils, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 red onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet because it's a perfect blend of textures and flavors that come together beautifully. The roasted vegetables bring a lovely sweetness while the lentils add a hearty, protein-packed base. With just a few simple ingredients and a dash of my favorite spices, this dish has become a weekly staple for my family. It's not only delicious, but it's also a healthy option that leaves us feeling satisfied and nourished.

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:01:11.606Z

When I first made the Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet, I was surprised by how much flavor could be packed into just a few ingredients. The key is to roast your vegetables until they’re slightly caramelized, as this enhances their natural sweetness and brings depth to the dish. Pairing that with hearty lentils not only makes it filling but also adds a great texture that complements the veggies perfectly.

As I experimented with this recipe, I discovered that adjusting the spice level really personalizes the dish. I love adding smoked paprika and a hint of cumin for an earthy warmth. The best part is that it's versatile; you can use whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a fantastic clean-out-the-fridge meal!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Colorful array of roasted vegetables adds visual appeal
Nutritious lentils provide a satisfying texture
Quick to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Customizable with your favorite spices and veggies

      

Mastering Roasting Techniques

Roasting the vegetables is a key step in enhancing the dish's flavor profile. For optimal results, ensure that your diced veggies are evenly coated with olive oil and spices to promote even cooking. Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet to prevent steaming. You'll know they are ready when they turn golden brown and start to caramelize around the edges, usually around 20 minutes at 425°F (220°C). If you like them a bit crispier, feel free to roast for an additional 5 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Use a variety of vegetables for added flavor and color. If bell peppers and zucchinis aren't available, consider substitutes like eggplant, squash, or even sweet potatoes. These will also add unique textures and tastes that complement the overall dish. Additionally, feel free to mix in some cherry tomatoes for a burst of acidity or asparagus for a touch of elegance.

Perfecting Your Lentils

The choice of lentils is crucial for achieving the desired texture. While this recipe calls for green lentils, which hold their shape well, you could use brown lentils as another alternative; just keep in mind that they cook slightly faster. When cooking lentils, make sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove any grit; this prevents any unwanted textures in your final dish. During the simmering process, it’s important to check for doneness at the 15-minute mark, as overcooked lentils can turn mushy and lose their appeal.

For additional flavor, consider enhancing the cooking broth with herbs like thyme or bay leaves. You can also add a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar at the end, which will brighten the dish and balance the lentils' earthiness. Keeping the lentils slightly al dente provides a hearty bite when mixed with the roasted vegetables.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

This Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet can be served as a standalone dish, but it also pairs wonderfully with grains like quinoa or brown rice for extra heartiness. Top it off with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese to add a creamy element that contrasts nicely with the roasted vegetables. For added freshness, garnish with chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth if it looks dry. For longer storage, you can freeze the skillet in portions, ensuring to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve flavor and texture.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 cup green lentils, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 red onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match your favorite veggies for this skillet!

Instructions

Directions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Roast the Vegetables

On a baking sheet, toss the diced vegetables with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.

Cook the Lentils

In a pot, combine the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the lentils are tender.

Combine

When the lentils are cooked, add them to the roasted vegetables in the skillet. Stir well to combine and serve hot.

Enjoy warm or as a meal prep option throughout the week!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add in spices like cumin or chili powder for an extra kick. This dish is also excellent served over rice or quinoa for added texture!

Ingredient Substitutions

Customizing this dish is easy; you can swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand. For instance, cauliflower or broccoli works great in place of zucchini and carrots. If you're avoiding nightshades, forget the bell peppers; instead, try using green beans or kale for a different taste and texture. Just keep in mind that roasting times may vary slightly with denser vegetables, so adjust accordingly, checking them periodically.

If you're looking for a protein-packed meal, consider adding cooked chickpeas or black beans alongside the lentils. This not only boosts the nutritional profile but also adds different flavors and textures. You can mix and match according to dietary preferences, making this dish versatile for all kinds of eaters.

Variations for Flavor Enhancement

Feel free to experiment with spices to make this recipe your own. Adding curry powder or garam masala can give it an Indian twist while incorporating cumin and coriander can lend a Middle Eastern flair. Adjust the amount of paprika depending on your spice preference; smoked paprika gives a nice depth, but regular paprika can also work if you're looking for a milder taste.

Consider making this a one-pot meal by adding a handful of spinach or Swiss chard in the last few minutes of cooking. This will wilt down beautifully and enhance both the flavor and nutritional value without adding much effort. It's an easy way to incorporate greens into your diet without compromising on the dish's overall satisfaction.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils?

Yes, you can use canned lentils to save time. Just rinse them and add them in the last few minutes.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.

→ What other vegetables work well in this recipe?

Feel free to customize with vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or sweet potatoes based on your preferences.