Herbed Lentil Rice with Roasted Veggies – Nourishing, Flavorful & Plant-Based Meal
This Herbed Lentil Rice with Roasted Veggies is a wholesome, flavor-packed plant-based meal! Protein-rich lentils and fluffy rice are tossed with fresh herbs and paired with perfectly roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers. It’s easy to make, naturally gluten-free, and ideal for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or nourishing lunches. A vibrant, satisfying dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Fine mesh strainer
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
Ingredients
For Lentil Rice Base:
- 1 cup green or brown lentils
- 1 cup basmati or long-grain rice
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For Roasted Veggies:
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh parsley or basil
- Lemon juice or tahini drizzle
Instructions
- Prep Lentils: Rinse lentils. In a saucepan, combine lentils with 1½ cups broth, thyme, and salt. Simmer for 20–25 minutes until tender. Drain excess liquid if needed.
- Cook Rice: Rinse rice. In a separate pot, heat olive oil, add rice and oregano, stir for 1 minute. Add 1½ cups broth, bring to boil, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff.
- Roast Veggies: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss chopped veggies with oil and seasonings. Spread on baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Assemble: Layer rice, lentils, and roasted veggies in bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs and optional drizzle.
Notes
- Use canned lentils for convenience—just rinse and skip simmering.
- Swap rice with quinoa or farro for variety.
- Roast veggies at high heat and avoid crowding for crisp edges.
- Store components separately for best texture during meal prep.
- Add fresh herbs after cooking to preserve flavor and color.