Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice

Name: Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth or water; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; Salt and black pepper to taste; Zest of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Natural Healthy Meals Collection

I absolutely love making Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice because it’s a wholesome blend of flavors and textures. Each time I prepare it, I'm reminded of how versatile lentils can be. With fragrant herbs and vibrant vegetables, this dish serves as a perfect side or a main course. Cooking it is straightforward, taking just under an hour, and it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more plant-based protein into my meals. I often customize the herbs based on what I have on hand, which adds a personal touch to each batch.

Created by

Elspeth Murray

Last updated on 2026-01-21T19:05:35.126Z

When I first made this Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice, I was impressed by how well the flavors meld together. The combination of lentils and rice not only makes for a filling meal but also provides a wonderful balance of nutrients. The secret, I found, is in letting it simmer gently, allowing the spices to infuse deeply.

I particularly enjoy playing with the herb combinations. Fresh parsley and thyme give it a unique fragrance, while a hint of lemon zest lifts the dish beautifully. It’s not just about flavor; the colors make it visually appealing too!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutritious and filling, packed with plant-based protein
Versatile; easily customizable with your favorite veggies
Fragrant herbs that elevate the meal's flavors

Why Variations Work

One of the joys of cooking Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice is its inherent versatility. You can easily swap out the vegetables based on what’s in your pantry or what’s in season. For instance, zucchini, spinach, or even sweet potatoes can fit seamlessly into this dish. Just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly; for example, softer veggies like spinach will need less time compared to heartier options, which should be added a bit earlier during the sautéing phase.

Another key to customizing this dish lies in the herbs you choose. While thyme and parsley lend a classic flavor, you can experiment with rosemary, dill, or even a bit of cumin for a different twist. I often use whatever fresh herbs I have on hand to keep it fresh and exciting each time I make it. Just remember that fresh herbs are usually more potent, so adjust the quantities accordingly to avoid overpowering the lentil and rice flavors.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice makes an excellent make-ahead meal. Once cooked, you can store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you’re looking to enjoy it later, consider portioning it out before refrigeration. This makes it easy to grab a single serving for lunch or dinner without needing to reheat the entire pot, saving time on busy days.

For those wanting to extend its shelf life further, consider freezing portions. It freezes well, and you can place it in freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring to leave some space for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While this recipe is straightforward, there are a couple of common pitfalls to be aware of. If you find that your lentils are mushy, it’s likely that they’ve been overcooked or there was too much liquid. Make sure to check the lentils around the 25-minute mark to see if they’ve reached the desired tenderness. Each type of lentil can have slightly different cooking times, so be sure to gauge accordingly in future preparations.

Conversely, if your rice is still hard or undercooked, it might need a few extra minutes of simmering with a lid on. Remember, keeping the lid on helps trap steam, which is essential for proper cooking. After adding the liquid, it’s crucial not to lift the lid too often, as this releases steam and can prolong cooking times. Adjusting the heat to ensure a gentle simmer, rather than a vigorous boil, also aids in even cooking.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your delicious Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 cup basmati rice, rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth or water
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
Salt and black pepper to taste
Zest of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley for garnish

With these ingredients ready, you're all set to create a vibrant and healthy meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Combine Lentils and Rice

Stir in the rinsed lentils and rice, followed by the vegetable broth (or water) and the dried herbs. Season with salt and black pepper. Bring to a boil.

Simmer

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes or until the lentils and rice are tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat and stir in the lemon zest. Fluff with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your nutrient-packed meal!

Your Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar just before serving. You can also mix in different seasonal vegetables based on your preference.

Nutritional Benefits

Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Lentils are a fantastic source of protein and fiber, aiding in digestive health and promoting fullness, making this dish a perfect option for a balanced meal. The vibrant vegetables contribute essential vitamins and minerals, enhancing both flavor and health benefits, creating a wholesome dish that's satisfying and nourishing.

This dish is an excellent choice for anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet. The combination of whole grains from the rice and the protein from lentils creates a complete amino acid profile, making it a perfect meal for vegetarians or anyone simply trying to incorporate more vegetarian options into their week.

Serving Suggestions

Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice can be enjoyed in various ways. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables to add texture and color. Top it off with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of tahini for added creaminess; both complement the dish beautifully.

Additionally, it makes a great filling for wraps or stuffed into bell peppers for a hearty lunch option. Simply scoop the rice mixture into halved bell peppers, top with cheese if desired, and bake until the peppers are tender. This variation not only provides a fun way to serve the dish but also adds an extra layer of flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of lentils?

Yes, you can use other lentils like red or black; just note that cooking times may vary.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth or water, this recipe is gluten-free.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to regain moisture.

→ Can I freeze Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice?

Absolutely! It freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.