Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet

Name: Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 bell peppers, diced; 1 zucchini, chopped; 1 red onion, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet for a hearty meal that’s comforting and nutritious. The combination of roasted vegetables with protein-packed lentils creates the perfect balance of flavor and texture. I’ve experimented with various veggie combinations, but I always return to my favorites: bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions. The key is to roast the veggies until they’re nicely caramelized, bringing out their natural sweetness. Pairing them with lentils makes this dish filling while keeping it vibrant and healthy.

Created by

Isla Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:37:12.545Z

When I first created this Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet, I was looking for a dish that would satisfy my desire for comfort food while still being wholesome. Roasting the vegetables really enhances their flavors and adds a wonderful depth to the dish. I recommend keeping an eye on them while they roast to ensure they become perfectly golden and slightly crispy.

This skillet is not just a feast for the senses, but it’s also packed with nutrients. I often add a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving, which elevates it to a whole new level of deliciousness. Give it a try for a quick weeknight dinner!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious and hearty, packed with protein and fiber.
Flavorful roasted vegetables that bring a sweet touch.
Versatile – can be paired with grains or enjoyed on its own.

      

Ingredient Insights

Lentils are the star of this Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet. I love using green or brown lentils because they hold their shape well during cooking, providing a pleasant texture. These lentils are not only a fantastic source of protein but are also packed with fiber, making this dish incredibly filling. To speed up the cooking process, you can soak the lentils for a few hours beforehand, which allows them to cook more quickly and evenly.

The vegetables in this recipe—all roasted to perfection—contribute various flavors and textures. Bell peppers add sweetness and vibrant color, while zucchini provides a tender bite that absorbs the seasoning. The red onion brings a slight sharpness that balances the overall taste. Feel free to experiment with seasonal veggies like carrots or broccoli, but be mindful of their cooking times as they may require slightly longer roasting.

Roasting Techniques

For perfectly caramelized vegetables, it’s crucial not to overcrowd the baking sheet. If the veggies are too close together, they'll steam instead of roast. Use two trays if necessary to give them ample space. Look for that golden-brown finish—this indicates that the natural sugars have released and created a sweet, smoky flavor that enhances the dish's overall taste. Toss them halfway through roasting for even cooking.

To achieve optimal seasoning, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the veggie mix before roasting. These herbs complement the sweetness of the vegetables beautifully. You can also experiment with spices, such as cumin or chili powder, for an added kick. Adjusting the seasoning according to your taste can elevate the dish immensely.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
2 bell peppers, diced
1 zucchini, chopped
1 red onion, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Enjoy your hearty Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet as a main dish or side!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Roast the Vegetables

In a large bowl, toss the diced bell peppers, chopped zucchini, and sliced red onion with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for about 25 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized.

Cook the Lentils

While the vegetables are roasting, combine the lentils and vegetable broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until tender.

Combine and Serve

Once the lentils are cooked, drain any excess broth and mix with the roasted vegetables in the skillet. Stir to combine and heat through. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute any of the roasted vegetables with your favorites, such as carrots or sweet potatoes. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet is perfect for meal prep! You can roast the vegetables and cook the lentils in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. This not only saves time during busy weeknights but allows the flavors to meld beautifully when reheated. Just combine them in a skillet for a quick stir-fry before serving.

If you’d like to freeze leftovers, place the cooled skillet mixture in a freezer-safe container. It can last for about 2-3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth to restore moisture if needed.

Serving Suggestions

While this dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for added whole grains. Alternatively, you could scoop it into whole-wheat pita pockets for a delicious sandwich option. Adding a dollop of plain yogurt or avocado slices can introduce a creamy element that contrasts nicely with the roasted veggies and lentils.

For a touch of brightness, drizzle a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the skillet just before serving. This zesty addition not only enhances the flavors but also gives it a fresh lift. You can also sprinkle some feta cheese on top for a savory note that complements the sweetness of the roasted vegetables.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils?

Yes, using canned lentils will save time. Just rinse and add them in the final step.

→ How long will leftovers last?

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

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, it freezes well! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I serve with this skillet?

This dish pairs well with quinoa, brown rice, or a simple green salad.