Name: Green Lentil Vegetable Casserole: 7 Comforting Benefits
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Ingredients: 1 cup green lentils, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium carrot, diced; 1 medium zucchini, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup coconut milk; 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

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Green Lentil Vegetable Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that truly nourishes the soul. This hearty dish combines the earthy flavors of green lentils with a vibrant medley of vegetables to create a creamy, fulfilling experience. Each bite of this vegetarian lentil dish is packed with nutrition, making it a perfect option for families seeking healthy meals. As you dive into this recipe, you’ll find that it’s not just simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Let’s explore the wonders of this fantastic casserole!

Why You’ll Love This Green Lentil Vegetable Casserole

This green lentil casserole is not only delicious but also remarkably versatile. Here are a few reasons why it should be on your dinner table:

Nutritious: Packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling meal.
Easy to Prepare: This is an easy green lentil casserole recipe that requires minimal prep time.
Vegan Friendly: A vegan lentil vegetable casserole that fits plant-based diets.
Comforting: The creamy texture provides comfort on chilly nights.
Meal Prep Ready: It’s perfect for green lentil casserole for meal prep.
Flexibility: You can easily swap in different vegetables to suit your taste.
Gluten-Free: This casserole is entirely gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Ingredients for Green Lentil Vegetable Casserole

Gather these items:

1 cup green lentils, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium carrot, diced
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup frozen peas
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup coconut milk
2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice

How to Make Green Lentil Vegetable Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a medium pot, combine the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy.
Step 3: While the lentils are cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add the diced carrot, zucchini, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Step 5: Stir in the cooked lentils, frozen peas, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
Step 6: In a separate bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice until smooth.
Step 7: Pour the creamy sauce over the lentil and vegetable mixture, stirring to combine.
Step 8: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is slightly golden and bubbly.

Pro Tips for the Best Green Lentil Vegetable Casserole

Keep these in mind:

This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
Feel free to substitute vegetables based on your preference.
Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped fresh herbs.

Best Ways to Serve Green Lentil Vegetable Casserole

Here are some great suggestions:

Pair this casserole with a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
Serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
This is a nourishing meal perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.

How to Store and Reheat Green Lentil Vegetable Casserole

To store, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For reheating, simply place it back in the oven until warmed through, or use the microwave for quicker results. This dish is perfect for green lentil casserole for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Green Lentil Vegetable Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect Green Lentil Vegetable Casserole?

The key to a perfect lentil vegetable bake is the balance of flavors and the creaminess of the sauce. Make sure to season well and not overcook the lentils for the best texture.

Can I make Green Lentil Vegetable Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This vegetarian lentil dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Simply reheat before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Green Lentil Vegetable Casserole?

To avoid mistakes, ensure you rinse the lentils well before cooking, and don’t skip the sautéing step for the vegetables. This enhances their flavor and texture in the casserole.

Variations of Green Lentil Vegetable Casserole You Can Try

Feel free to switch things up! You can add:

Different vegetables like broccoli or spinach.
A layer of cheese on top for a non-vegan option.
Spices like cumin or curry powder for a flavor twist.

These variations can make your dish more exciting while still being part of a gluten-free green lentil casserole!

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making a cheesy vegetable casserole for a comforting twist. If you’re looking for a hearty meal, consider sweet potato casserole as a side dish!

Additionally, you can learn more about the health benefits of lentils from Healthline.

Green Lentil Vegetable Casserole: 7 Comforting Benefits

Author: basmer
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegan

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Description

This Green Lentil and Vegetable Casserole is a hearty dish that combines the earthy flavors of lentils with a medley of vibrant vegetables. The creamy texture, enhanced by a rich blend of spices, creates a comforting experience that warms the soul with every bite.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a medium pot, combine the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy.
While the lentils are cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced carrot, zucchini, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Stir in the cooked lentils, frozen peas, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice until smooth.
Pour the creamy sauce over the lentil and vegetable mixture, stirring to combine.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is slightly golden and bubbly.