Healthy Dinner Lentil Vegetable Stew

Name: Healthy Dinner Lentil Vegetable Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown); 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 zucchini, diced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juice; 2 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick Kitchen Classics

I often crave a warm and hearty meal, especially on chilly evenings, and this Healthy Dinner Lentil Vegetable Stew never disappoints. Packed with nutritious lentils and vibrant vegetables, it's not only delicious but also incredibly filling. I love how this stew can be prepared in just one pot, making clean-up a breeze. By adding a variety of spices, I ensure that every spoonful is bursting with flavor. Whether I'm enjoying it solo or serving it to friends, this stew always earns rave reviews!

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:10:11.359Z

When I first attempted this Healthy Dinner Lentil Vegetable Stew, I wasn’t sure if the flavors would meld together as well as I envisioned. However, after simmering everything together, I was pleasantly surprised by how delicious and comforting it turned out. The combination of spices really elevates the dish, and using fresh vegetables makes a world of difference.

One essential tip I discovered is to allow the stew to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to deepen and truly shine, resulting in a wholesome meal that feels just right on a busy night. Trust me, you’ll want to come back for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with protein and fiber from lentils.
Versatile for any vegetables you have on hand.
A comforting dish that's perfect for meal prep.

Ingredient Insights

Lentils are the star of this stew, not only providing a hearty texture but also contributing an impressive amount of protein and fiber. When choosing lentils, green or brown varieties are ideal as they hold their shape better during cooking, unlike red lentils which can become mushy. Rinsing them thoroughly before cooking helps to remove any debris and can enhance the overall flavor of the stew.

Incorporating a variety of vegetables like zucchini, bell pepper, and carrots brings both color and nutrition to your dish. Feel free to experiment with other veggies you have on hand, such as sweet potatoes or kale. Just remember that denser vegetables require a longer cooking time to become tender, so consider chopping them smaller or pre-cooking them briefly before adding.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the onions, garlic, and vegetables at the start not only softens them but builds a foundation of flavor. Make sure to watch them closely to prevent burning; you want them to turn translucent, not brown. This initial step releases their essential oils and sweetness, crucial for a well-rounded stew.

Simmering the stew allows the lentils and vegetables to meld into a cohesive dish. To achieve the best results, maintain a gentle simmer while covered, which helps retain moisture and encourages even cooking. If you notice the stew getting too thick, you can always add an extra splash of vegetable broth to loosen it without compromising flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your lentil vegetable stew:

Ingredients

1 cup dried lentils (green or brown)
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 zucchini, diced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to prep your ingredients ahead of time for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your stew:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened for about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and bell pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes.

Combine Lentils and Spices

Add the dried lentils, diced tomatoes, zucchini, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Simmer the Stew

Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer, covering the pot. Cook for about 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley!

Make sure to enjoy this stew on its own or with crusty bread!

Pro Tips

Feel free to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. This stew is very forgiving and adaptable.

Storage and Reheating

This lentil vegetable stew is perfect for meal prep, as it stores wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To keep flavors fresh, allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. If you want to freeze it, portion it into freezer-safe bags, leaving some space for expansion, and it can last for up to three months.

When reheating, either on the stovetop or in the microwave, add a little extra broth or water to avoid drying out. Heat slowly until warmed through, stirring occasionally. A quick tip: taste and adjust seasoning again, as flavors can sometimes mellow after storage.

Variations to Try

Feel free to adjust the spices in this stew according to your taste preferences. Adding a pinch of cayenne for heat or some fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can elevate the flavor profile. Additionally, if you enjoy a creamier stew, consider blending a portion of it after cooking or stirring in a splash of coconut milk for a richer texture.

For a heartier option, serve the stew over grains like quinoa or brown rice. This adds another layer of texture and makes it even more filling. Alternatively, enjoy it with crusty bread for a comforting meal on a chilly night.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned lentils but reduce the cooking time since they are already cooked.

→ How can I make this stew spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño during the sauté step.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad.