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 lentils, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 red onion, chopped; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped fresh parsley; Balsamic glaze

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love creating dishes that are both satisfying and packed with nutrients, and my Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet is a perfect example. The combination of hearty lentils and vibrant roasted vegetables makes for a colorful and wholesome meal. Each bite is a delicious blend of texture and flavor, and the best part is how simple it is to prepare! Whether I serve it as a weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, this skillet never fails to impress and nourish me.

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:10:22.565Z

When I first made this Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet, I was amazed by how the flavors melded together. Roasting the veggies brings out their natural sweetness, and mixing them with the earthy lentils creates a fantastic balance. I like to add a drizzle of balsamic glaze at the end for an extra layer of flavor that really ties everything together.

I also learned that using different vegetables based on the season can make this dish versatile and exciting. Last week, I swapped sweet potatoes for butternut squash, and it was a hit! Don't hesitate to experiment and tailor it to your taste!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty lentils packed with plant-based protein
A rainbow of roasted veggies for added nutrients
Simple to make in one skillet for less cleanup

      

Understanding Lentils

Lentils are not just filling; they are a powerhouse of nutrition. In this Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet, they provide plant-based protein, making the dish satisfying and ideal for meatless meals. I recommend using green or brown lentils for their firm texture, as they hold their shape well during cooking. Avoid red lentils, as they tend to break down and become mushy, which won't complement the roasted vegetables’ crunchiness.

When cooking lentils, rinsing them first removes any dust or impurities, ensuring a cleaner taste. Simmering them with broth instead of water infuses more flavor into the dish. Keep an eye on the cooking time; overcooked lentils can become mushy. They should be tender but still slightly firm to the bite to maintain the desired texture in the skillet.

Perfecting the Vegetable Roast

Roasting the vegetables is crucial for developing a deep, caramelized flavor. When tossing the veggies with olive oil and spices, ensure they are evenly coated for consistent roasting. The 20-25 minute roasting time at 400°F (200°C) is key—check for doneness by looking for golden edges and a tender texture. If the veggies are not caramelizing, try increasing the temperature slightly or extending the roasting time by a few minutes.

Feel free to mix and match the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Carrots, sweet potatoes, or even brussels sprouts can work beautifully here. Just adjust the roasting time accordingly, as denser vegetables may require longer cooking to achieve that delicious caramelization.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet is perfect for meal prep. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to bring back moisture and freshness. If you plan to freeze portions, consider leaving out the balsamic glaze until just before serving, as it may separate once frozen.

For serving, fresh parsley adds a bright contrast that enhances the dish. If you'd like to elevate it further, try drizzling balsamic glaze just before serving—it adds an excellent tangy sweetness that complements the earthiness of the lentils and vegetables beautifully. Additionally, this dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 cup lentils, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 red onion, chopped
2 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Chopped fresh parsley
Balsamic glaze

Making sure all ingredients are prepped ahead of time makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Roast the Vegetables

On a baking sheet, toss the bell pepper, zucchini, red onion, and broccoli with olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the veggies are tender and slightly caramelized.

Cook the Lentils

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until lentils are tender.

Combine and Serve

Once the vegetables are roasted and the lentils are cooked, combine them in a skillet. Toss gently, add chopped parsley, and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

This hearty dish is perfect for meal prep or a family dinner.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the vegetables according to what you have on hand or what's in season. Adding a splash of lemon juice at the end can brighten up the flavors even more!

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your dietary needs or preferences. Instead of olive oil, you can use avocado oil for a different flavor profile and a higher smoke point. If you're looking for a lower-sodium option, consider making your own vegetable broth or using water combined with a few herbs, which allows you to control the salt content while still infusing flavor into the lentils.

To add a bit of spice, you might want to incorporate some red pepper flakes or a pinch of cumin. If you have leftover roasted vegetables from another meal, toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking the lentils for an easy way to add extra flavor and nutrition without additional prep time.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings. If serving a crowd, simply double or triple the ingredients, making sure to divide the veggies onto separate baking sheets to allow for proper roasting. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than roasting, which affects texture. Keep the cooking times the same, but monitor the doneness to ensure all ingredients are perfectly cooked.

When scaling up, consider adding additional spices to keep the flavor balanced, especially if using larger amounts of vegetables and lentils. It’s also a great idea to make a larger batch of balsamic glaze on the side, as it can elevate the dish significantly when serving a bigger crowd. This way, everyone gets just the right amount of drizzle over their plates!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! This recipe is already vegan as it uses lentils and vegetables.

→ How long do leftovers last?

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

→ Can I freeze the Roasted Veggie Lentil Skillet?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

→ What can I serve with this skillet?

This dish is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with quinoa, rice, or a simple salad for a complete meal.