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 diced bell peppers (any color); 1 cup diced zucchini; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 cup diced red onion; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup dry green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love diving into a wholesome, vibrant dish like my Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet. The colorful array of veggies combined with protein-packed lentils creates a hearty meal that's both satisfying and nourishing. I enjoy how easy it is to prepare—everything can be tossed onto a baking sheet and roasted together. The result is a beautiful medley of flavors that makes weeknight dinners feel special. Whether you're looking for a comforting dish or a healthy option, this recipe ticks all the boxes!

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:25:14.684Z

Creating my Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet was born from a desire to find a quick and nutritious meal. As I experimented with various vegetables, I discovered that roasting them brings out their natural sweetness and flavors. The key is to ensure they are all cut to similar sizes for even cooking. I love how simple ingredients can elevate one another, especially when mixed with hearty lentils.

I’ve found that adding a dash of smoked paprika ties all the flavors together beautifully. It gives each bite a subtle smokiness that perfectly complements the roasted veggies. This dish not only looks impressive, but it’s also a great way to use up leftover vegetables in your fridge. I can't wait for you to try it!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Colorful medley of roasted vegetables packed with flavor
Nutritious lentils make it a filling and satisfying meal
Perfect for meal prep and healthy weeknight dinners

      

Understanding Your Ingredients

Each vegetable in this Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet plays a distinct role, not just in terms of flavor but also texture. Bell peppers add sweetness and crunch, while zucchini introduces a subtle earthiness that contrasts nicely when roasted. Tomatoes contribute juiciness, becoming almost saucy as they caramelize, and red onion adds a touch of sharpness. Consider using seasonal vegetables for different flavor profiles; for instance, substituting butternut squash during fall can bring a lovely sweetness.

It's essential to rinse the lentils thoroughly before cooking. This step removes any debris and helps prevent them from boiling over or clumping together. When choosing lentils, green and brown varieties are ideal for their firm texture, standing up well to roasting and stirring without becoming mushy. Be cautious with red lentils, as they tend to break down more, altering the dish's intended texture.

Mastering the Cooking Process

Roasting vegetables at 425°F (220°C) allows them to caramelize effectively, developing deeper flavor profiles and a delightful texture. Keep an eye on them; the vegetables should become tender and showcase golden edges after about 25-30 minutes. If you notice uneven roasting, give them a stir halfway through for even cooking. If you're in a hurry, you can also choose to use a convection oven setting, which circulates hot air for quicker cooking.

When preparing the lentils, the bay leaf and dried thyme elevate the flavor significantly. Make sure to monitor the cooking process; if the liquid evaporates too quickly, you can add an extra splash of vegetable broth or water to keep them moist. After cooking, allowing the lentils to sit covered off the heat for a few minutes can enhance their flavor profile, as they absorb the remaining liquid and spices.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet:

Roasted Veggie Ingredients

1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
1 cup diced zucchini
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup diced red onion
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Lentil Ingredients

1 cup dry green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Fresh parsley for garnish

Having everything prepped makes the cooking process seamless and enjoyable!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious roasted veggie lentil skillet:

Roast the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the diced bell peppers, zucchini, tomatoes, and red onion in olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.

Cook the Lentils

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, bay leaf, and dried thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

Combine and Serve

Once the veggies are roasted and lentils are cooked, remove them from the heat. Discard the bay leaf and combine the lentils with the roasted vegetables in a large bowl. Toss gently to combine, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Enjoy your vibrant and nutritious meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. You can also customize the vegetables based on seasonal produce or whatever you have on hand for a delicious variation.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This dish makes for excellent leftovers, which can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually intensify as they meld together over time. For longer storage, freeze in portions, allowing the skillet to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months.

To reheat, use a microwave or stovetop. If reheating on the stove, add a splash of vegetable broth to prevent drying out and to revive the dish's original creaminess. Heat on medium-low, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. The gentle reheating will ensure that the texture remains pleasant and appealing.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese for creaminess and tang. Alternatively, you could serve it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice to soak up all the flavors. Adding a side salad can also bring a refreshing crunch.

If you're looking to customize this recipe, you might experiment with different herbs and spices. Fresh basil or cilantro can provide a fragrant finish, while a dash of balsamic vinegar can add a delightful acidity. For a heartier version, you could mix in cooked grains or legumes like farro or chickpeas. Adjusting the spice level with chili flakes or jalapeños can enhance the dish's warmth, catering to your personal taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you prefer like carrots, asparagus, or broccoli.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Yes, both lentils and all the vegetables in this recipe are naturally vegan!

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs wonderfully with quinoa or a side salad for a complete meal.