Green Lentil Vegetable Casserole (Printable Version)

Protein-packed lentils and seasonal vegetables baked with herbs and a golden parmesan topping for a comforting vegetarian main.

# Ingredient List:

→ Lentils

01 - 1 cup dried green lentils, rinsed
02 - 3 cups vegetable broth

→ Vegetables

03 - 1 medium onion, diced
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 2 medium carrots, sliced
06 - 1 medium zucchini, diced
07 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
08 - 1 cup button mushrooms, sliced
09 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
10 - 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

→ Herbs & Seasonings

11 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
12 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
13 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
14 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
15 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
16 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste

→ Topping

17 - 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, or vegan alternative
18 - 1/2 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs, optional

# How to Prepare:

01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
02 - In a medium saucepan, combine lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid.
03 - While lentils cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
04 - Add carrots, zucchini, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
05 - Stir in cherry tomatoes, spinach, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until spinach wilts.
06 - Combine cooked lentils and sautéed vegetables in a large mixing bowl. Mix well to combine.
07 - Transfer the mixture to a greased 2-quart baking dish. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs if using.
08 - Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling.
09 - Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It turns humble pantry staples into a vibrant centerpiece that feels much more expensive than it actually is.
  • The way the smoked paprika dances with the earthy lentils creates a depth of flavor that usually takes hours to develop.
02 -
  • Rinsing your lentils under cold water helps remove any hidden dust or tiny stones that might ruin your dinner.
  • Waiting just five minutes after taking it out of the oven allows the juices to settle and makes for much cleaner scoops.
03 -
  • For an extra crunchy topping mix your breadcrumbs with a teaspoon of melted butter or olive oil before sprinkling.
  • Always taste your vegetable mixture before it goes into the oven to see if it needs one last pinch of salt.
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