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 rice (basmati or jasmine); 1/2 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups vegetable broth or water; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Light Healthy Meals Collection

I love making Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice as it brings together a vibrant medley of flavors and textures. Each bite is packed with nutritious vegetables, tender lentils, and aromatic herbs that elevate a simple dish to something truly satisfying. This recipe is my go-to for busy weeknight dinners or when I want to impress guests with a hearty, healthy option. The best part is how easily customizable it is; you can throw in any veggies you have on hand and still achieve fantastic results!

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-21T19:42:35.549Z

When experimenting with different grains and legumes, I discovered that lentils pair beautifully with rice, especially when infused with fresh herbs. I initially stumbled upon this combination while trying to create a side dish that would pack a nutritional punch without sacrificing flavor. The result was astonishing, and I found that the lentils not only added protein but also a wonderful texture to the dish.

One of my tips is to sauté your herbs and vegetables before adding them to the rice and lentils. This technique really releases their natural oils and enhances the overall aroma and taste. The herb blend I use is versatile and can easily be adjusted to suit your personal preferences, making it a perfect base for any meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously nutritious with a balance of proteins and carbs
Flexible with any seasonal vegetables you have on hand
Aromatic herbs bring warmth and depth to every bite

Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Herbs

Using fresh herbs can significantly elevate the flavor profile of Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice. While the recipe mentions dried oregano and thyme, incorporating fresh versions can introduce a vibrant, aromatic quality that dried herbs may lack. I recommend using about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried, adding them towards the end of cooking to preserve their bright flavors. A handful of chopped fresh basil or cilantro can also bring a delightful twist to this dish.

Herbs not only add flavor but also offer health benefits. Thyme is known for its antioxidant properties, while parsley is rich in Vitamin K. Their aromatic qualities can make the dish enticing and enjoyable, turning a simple meal into a gourmet experience without much extra effort. As an additional tip, experiment with herb combinations based on seasonal availability for a unique take each time.

Customizing Your Vegetable Medley

One of the best aspects of Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice is its flexibility with vegetables. Depending on what you have on hand, you can substitute or add vegetables like spinach, kale, or even sweet potatoes for different textures and flavors. Remember that denser vegetables like carrots and bell peppers need more cooking time, while quick-cooking greens can be added in the last few minutes to retain their vibrant color and nutrients.

If you're looking for a heartier dish, consider adding cooked protein like chickpeas or shredded chicken. These can be stirred in at the end along with the rice to create a more substantial meal. Always taste as you go; this allows you to balance flavors and adjust seasoning to fit any additional ingredients you incorporate.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice stores well, making it a great option for meal prep. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container to maintain freshness. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for up to three months. If freezing, portion it out to make reheating easier. When you're ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of vegetable broth for moisture.

To ensure a great reheating experience, stir frequently while warming on the stove over low heat. This prevents uneven heating and helps the rice regain its original texture. If you find it too dry after reheating, a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of water can help revive the dish.

Ingredients

Gather all the fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Ingredients

1 cup rice (basmati or jasmine)
1/2 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups vegetable broth or water
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to measure accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice!

Prepare the Lentils and Rice

In a pot, combine the lentils with 2 cups of vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until tender but firm. In a separate pot, cook rice according to package instructions and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until translucent. Then add the carrot, bell pepper, and zucchini, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until softened.

Combine Ingredients

Once the lentils are cooked, drain excess liquid if needed, then add them to the skillet of sautéed vegetables. Stir in the cooked rice, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well and heat through.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm as a main or side dish.

Enjoy your healthy meal that’s packed with flavors!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices based on what you enjoy or have available. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten up the dish even more.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're cooking for a larger group, this recipe scales beautifully. Simply increase the quantities of rice, lentils, and vegetables while preserving the proportions of herbs and seasoning. This dish can easily accommodate gatherings. For instance, doubling the recipe can typically serve 6-8 people, making it a wonderful centerpiece for a buffet-style meal.

When scaling up, keep in mind the size of your pots and pans. You may need to cook the lentils and vegetables in batches for even cooking. Also, taste as you increase the amounts, adjusting the herbs, salt, and pepper accordingly to maintain a balanced flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice can be served as a main or side dish, making it incredibly versatile. Pair it with a simple side salad, yogurt dressing, or even roasted meat for an impressive meal. If enjoyed as a main dish, consider topping it with some toasted nuts or feta cheese for extra flavor and texture, transforming it into a hearty dish that can impress any guest.

For a delightful twist on presentation, serve the rice in hollowed-out bell peppers or zucchini boats. Not only does this enhance the visual appeal, but it also adds an extra layer of flavor as the vegetables bake alongside the filling, making for an enjoyable meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, but you should adjust the cooking time since canned lentils are already cooked. Add them in the last few minutes of sautéing the vegetables.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

It is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free rice. Always check the packaging to confirm.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat before serving.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add spinach, kale, peas, or any seasonal vegetables you have. Just adjust the cooking time according to their requirements.