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 green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 carrots, chopped; 1 celery stalk, chopped; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, chopped; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love this Healthy Dinner Lentil Vegetable Stew! It’s my go-to recipe for those busy weeknights when I crave something hearty yet nutritious. Packed with protein-rich lentils and a variety of vibrant vegetables, this stew is not only filling but also bursting with flavor. I enjoy the versatility of this dish, as you can easily swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrition for the whole family while keeping things simple in the kitchen.

Created by

Ottilie James

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:58:13.282Z

While preparing this lentil vegetable stew, I experimented with different spices and found that a hint of cumin and coriander really elevates the dish. The combination of these spices creates a warm, comforting aroma that fills the kitchen and makes everything feel cozy. As I let the stew simmer, I loved watching the colors of the vegetables intensify, which always brings a smile to my face.

One particularly great tip I discovered is to use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the lentils, which gives the stew an extra depth of flavor. It’s these little tricks that transform a simple recipe into something special, making it one of my favorite weeknight meals!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich in protein and fiber to keep you satisfied
A simple way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet
Can be customized with your favorite seasonal produce

      

Ingredient Variations

One of the great things about this Healthy Dinner Lentil Vegetable Stew is its adaptability. Feel free to play around with the vegetables based on what's in season or what you have on hand. For example, adding some sweet potatoes or kale can elevate the nutritional profile while contributing unique flavors and textures. If you're looking for a spicier kick, throw in some diced jalapeños or switch up the bell pepper with a spicier variety.

If you're running low on certain ingredients, don’t hesitate to swap. For instance, if you don’t have vegetable broth, water will suffice, albeit with a flavor sacrifice. Another common substitution is using green lentils instead of brown; they tend to hold their shape better and will add a nice bite to the overall texture of the stew.

Make-Ahead Tips

This stew is an excellent option for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days. To make the most of your time, consider preparing a larger batch. You can easily double or even triple the recipe; just ensure that your pot is large enough to handle the added volume of ingredients. When reheating, I find it beneficial to add a splash of vegetable broth to restore moisture and enhance flavor.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the stew. Divide it into airtight containers and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat on the stovetop until heated through, adjusting seasoning as necessary. This not only saves time but also makes a hearty meal available at a moment's notice.

Serving Suggestions

This lentil vegetable stew can be enjoyed on its own, but I love serving it with a crusty slice of whole-grain bread or over a bed of fluffy quinoa. The addition of a protein like grilled chicken or a dollop of Greek yogurt can enrich the meal while adding extra flavor. You can also top it with crumbled feta cheese for a salty contrast that pairs beautifully with the earthy lentils and vegetables.

For an enhanced flavor experience, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of lemon zest or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar right before serving. It brightens the dish and adds a refreshing twist. You could even create a simple side salad of mixed greens to accompany the stew, drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice for an extra touch of freshness.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your stew delicious and nutritious:

Ingredients

1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, chopped
1 celery stalk, chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your healthy stew:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until they become fragrant and the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add and Cook Lentils

Stir in the chopped carrots, celery, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook for another 5 minutes, then add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, and coriander. Bring to a boil.

Simmer the Stew

Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 25-30 minutes until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

Serve and Garnish

Once ready, ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy your delicious and hearty meal!

Pro Tips

For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the stew and then mix it back in. This will result in a lovely consistency while keeping some whole lentils and vegetables for texture.

Cooking Techniques

The key to a flavorful stew lies in the initial sautéing of the aromatics—onion and garlic. Cooking these until they are soft and slightly golden creates a robust base for the stew. This step usually takes about five minutes, and your kitchen will smell divine. Make sure to operate over medium heat to avoid burning them, which can impart a bitter taste to the dish.

When adding the vegetables after sautéing, ensure they are cut into similar sizes to promote even cooking. The mix of colorful vegetables—carrots, celery, zucchini—creates a visually appealing dish, but it also allows for varied textures. You should see them soften but retain a bit of crunch after the additional cooking time. This technique helps in achieving a pleasing mouthfeel throughout the stew.

Flavor Enhancements

To deepen the flavor of the stew, consider adding a bay leaf or thyme while it simmers. Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving, as it’s inedible and meant purely for flavor infusion. I also recommend tasting the stew during the last few minutes of simmering; this way, you can adjust the seasoning, ensuring that each bowl is perfectly seasoned according to your preference.

Incorporating a splash of lemon juice just prior to serving can bring a brightness that balances out the earthiness of the lentils and vegetables. If you prefer a thicker consistency, use an immersion blender to gently blend a portion of the stew, then stir it back in. This adds creaminess without any additional dairy or ingredients, keeping the stew healthy and delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead?

Yes, you can use canned lentils to save time; just rinse and add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

→ Is this stew vegan?

Absolutely! All the ingredients in this recipe are plant-based.

→ How can I make this spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the vegetables.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, it freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.