Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice

Name: Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup brown rice; 1/2 cup lentils (any variety); 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, peas); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Healthy Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love making Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice when I want a healthy yet flavorful meal. The combination of tender lentils, aromatic herbs, and vibrant vegetables creates a dish that’s not only nourishing but also incredibly satisfying. I find that the secret to really bringing out the flavors is to sauté the herbs before adding the other ingredients, allowing them to release their essential oils and enhance the overall taste. In just about 30 minutes, I can whip up a bowl of this wholesome goodness that everyone loves!

Created by

Thea Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-20T00:01:34.715Z

When I first decided to make this Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice, I was on a mission to create a dish packed with flavors and nutrients. I experimented with various herbs, and I found that thyme and rosemary really made the difference. The trick is to infuse the oil with these herbs before adding the rest of the ingredients, which ensures that every bite is aromatic and tasty.

Another highlight of this recipe is the colorful vegetables that add visual appeal and texture. Using seasonal produce not only enhances the flavor but also keeps this dish fresh and exciting. I find that incorporating a splash of lemon juice just before serving elevates the taste even more!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic herbs elevate the flavor profile beautifully
Nutritious lentils provide protein and fiber for a filling meal
Versatile and customizable with your favorite vegetables

      

The Importance of Herbs

In this recipe, herbs play a crucial role in enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. By sautéing dried thyme and rosemary in olive oil, you allow the essential oils to release, creating a fragrant base for the vegetables. It's important to watch closely during this step; the herbs should become aromatic but not burned. A minute or so is usually sufficient. This technique transforms the dish, giving it depth and a bouquet of flavors that are distinctly herbal.

If you prefer fresh herbs, you can certainly replace the dried thyme and rosemary with them. Use approximately three times the amount of fresh herbs, as they are less concentrated in flavor. Add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their bright taste, stirring them in just a minute before serving.

Vegetable Variations

The mixed vegetables in this Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice are easily customizable based on seasonal produce or personal preferences. For instance, zucchini, spinach, or green beans can be delicious additions, adding color and nutrition. Just be mindful of the cooking times; softer vegetables may require less cooking to maintain their texture, while heartier ones might need slightly longer to become tender.

Incorporating leftover vegetables from previous meals is a fantastic way to minimize waste and add an extra layer of flavor. Just chop them up and sauté them along with the herbs. If you find that some vegetables tend to cook faster, keep an eye out and remove them as they reach the desired tenderness to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice is an excellent make-ahead meal. You can prepare the rice and lentils a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, quickly sauté the vegetables and mix everything together on the stovetop, heating it until warmed through, which should take about 5 minutes.

If you plan to freeze the dish, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. You can store it for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth if necessary to prevent drying out.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious dish:

For the Rice

1 cup brown rice
1/2 cup lentils (any variety)
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, peas)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice:

Prepare the Lentils and Rice

Rinse the lentils and rice under cold water. In a saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil, then add the rice and lentils. Lower the heat to a simmer and cover.

Cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice and lentils are tender.

Sauté the Vegetables and Herbs

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the dried thyme and rosemary, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook until they're tender, around 5 minutes.

Combine and Season

Once the rice and lentils are cooked, add them to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Toss gently to combine, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Warm through for another 2-3 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice to a serving dish. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top adds a refreshing touch. Serve warm and enjoy your nutritious dish!

Enjoy this delicious Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice as a side or a main dish!

Pro Tips

Feel free to mix and match vegetables based on what’s in season or in your fridge. Adding a sprinkle of feta cheese on top before serving can also enhance the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of your Herbed Vegetable Lentil Rice, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream for creaminess. A sprinkle of feta cheese or nutritional yeast can also add a savory boost and a touch of richness that complements the dish beautifully.

For crunch and texture contrast, topping the dish with toasted nuts like pine nuts or almonds can add a delightful twist. Additionally, a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a bright herb vinaigrette can enhance the flavor profile and provide a tangy finish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your lentils are turning mushy, it's likely that they were overcooked or that the heat was too high when simmering. Lentils are usually done when they are tender but still hold their shape, typically within 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them and periodically taste to achieve the desired texture.

Conversely, if the rice is undercooked and the lentils are ready, you can separate them and continue cooking the rice with a little more broth until it absorbs completely. Remember, stirring occasionally helps prevent sticking and promotes even cooking.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe scales up easily for larger gatherings. For every additional cup of brown rice, use 1/2 cup more lentils and 1 cup of vegetable broth. Keep in mind, though, that the sautéing process for the vegetables may require multiple batches if your skillet is not large enough to accommodate all at once.

It's also handy to remember that cooking times may vary slightly when increasing the quantity. Larger portions might benefit from a longer simmer to ensure even cooking. Always check for doneness by tasting both the rice and lentils before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, but cooking times will differ. White rice typically cooks faster, so adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This rice keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for planning ahead.

→ Can I add more protein to this dish?

Certainly! Adding beans or tofu would boost the protein content, making it even more filling.

→ What herbs can I substitute for thyme and rosemary?

You can use herbs like oregano, basil, or even parsley depending on your taste preferences.