Healthy Dinner Lentil Vegetable Stew

Name: Healthy Dinner Lentil Vegetable Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

When I think of a nourishing meal that warms the soul, I instantly think of my Healthy Dinner Lentil Vegetable Stew. This recipe is incredibly satisfying, bursting with a medley of fresh vegetables and hearty lentils. I love how the spices blend together to enhance the natural flavors, making it perfect for any night of the week. Plus, it's simple to prepare and is a great way to sneak in some healthy ingredients for my family. Get ready for a dish that’s not only delicious but also good for you!

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:46:18.310Z

When I first crafted this Healthy Dinner Lentil Vegetable Stew, I aimed to create something that was not only filling but also a feast for the senses. I love how the lentils provide a rich texture that pairs beautifully with the vibrant vegetables. The result is a bowl of goodness that's both heartwarming and nutritious.

One key tip I discovered is to sauté the onions and garlic before adding the rest of the ingredients; this step deepens the flavor and creates a savory base that elevates the entire dish. Trust me, it makes all the difference! Now, this stew is a staple in our home, perfect for chilly evenings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling option
Colorful vegetables that boost the nutrition and appeal
Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients or spices

      

The Benefits of Lentils

Lentils are a standout ingredient in this stew, providing an excellent source of protein and fiber. This makes the dish not only filling but also nutritious, which is perfect for a healthy dinner option. When cooked, lentils take on a pleasingly soft texture that complements the vibrant vegetables nicely. Additionally, their earthy flavor enhances the overall richness of the stew, making each bite satisfying and hearty.

One of the best things about lentils is their quick cooking time compared to other legumes. They typically take only 20-30 minutes to become tender, which allows the flavors to meld effectively without requiring night-long soaking. This means you can whip up this nutritious stew on a busy weeknight without a lot of prep time. Remember to rinse the lentils to remove any debris and dirt before adding them to your dish for optimal texture.

Vegetable Variations

Feel free to experiment with the vegetable selection in this stew. While the base recipe calls for carrots, celery, bell pepper, and zucchini, you can easily substitute in seasonal or favorite vegetables like sweet potatoes, spinach, or even green beans. Just remember that denser vegetables like sweet potatoes will take longer to cook, so you may want to chop them smaller or add them earlier in the cooking process for even tenderness.

I also enjoy adding a handful of kale or spinach right toward the end of cooking for an extra boost of nutrients. These leafy greens wilt quickly and infuse the stew with a lovely green color and additional vitamins. If you’re using frozen vegetables, adjust the cooking time to ensure they don’t overcook and become mushy.

Ingredients

Stew Ingredients

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

Feel free to swap any of the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand!

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the diced carrots, celery, and bell pepper, cooking for another 5 minutes until slightly softened. Add the zucchini and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Combine and Simmer

Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes, followed by the rinsed lentils, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Cook the Stew

Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your homemade Healthy Dinner Lentil Vegetable Stew hot!

This stew can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables or even some chopped spinach for an extra nutrient boost!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This lentil vegetable stew makes a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can prepare a large batch and store portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors meld together beautifully as it sits, which enhances the taste. For longer storage, consider freezing the stew. It freezes well for up to three months; just leave a little space in the container for expansion as it freezes.

To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming on the stove over medium heat. If it looks a little thick upon reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. Stir often to ensure even heating.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Dinner Lentil Vegetable Stew pairs perfectly with a crusty piece of bread or a fresh side salad. The bread is excellent for soaking up the rich stew, while a crunchy salad adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty dish. For a more filling meal, consider serving it over rice or quinoa. The grains absorb the flavors from the stew beautifully, enhancing every spoonful.

If you're looking to add a little spice, try topping the stew with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. Both options elevate the flavors and add a creamy or zesty dimension to the dish. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro also work wonderfully as a garnish, giving the stew a bright and vibrant finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of lentils?

Yes, while green or brown lentils work best, you can also use red lentils, but they will cook faster and create a creamier texture.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients listed are gluten-free.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store the stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, over rice, or even as a filling for wraps.