Herbed Vegetable Lentil Stew

Name: Herbed Vegetable Lentil Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 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 dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love creating warm and nourishing dishes in my kitchen, and this Herbed Vegetable Lentil Stew has become one of my favorites. The combination of hearty lentils and vibrant vegetables comes together beautifully, creating a comforting meal that's perfect for chilly nights. What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity; it requires minimal prep and can be cooked in one pot! Each spoonful is packed with flavor, making it not only nourishing but also delicious.

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:01:17.203Z

When I first decided to make this stew, I wanted something hearty yet filled with vibrant, fresh flavors. I experimented with various herbs and spices, eventually finding the perfect balance that elevates the lentils and vegetables. The addition of thyme and rosemary adds a fragrant touch that truly enhances the overall experience.

One tip I discovered through trial and error is to sauté the onions and garlic before adding the broth; it really brings out their sweetness and depth. This stew not only filled our bellies but also warmed our hearts on a brisk evening.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and nutritious, perfect for a cozy meal
Versatile recipe; can customize with your favorite vegetables
Aromatic herbs create a delightful flavor profile

      

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this Herbed Vegetable Lentil Stew plays a pivotal role in creating a hearty dish. The lentils are not only a source of protein but also provide a satisfying texture that enhances the stew's overall mouthfeel. I prefer using green or brown lentils, which hold their shape well during cooking, ensuring that they contribute to the stew's substance without turning mushy.

The variety of vegetables brings layers of flavor and nutrition; carrots and celery provide a traditional mirepoix, while bell pepper and zucchini add a touch of sweetness and freshness. If you're out of zucchini or prefer another vegetable, sweet potatoes or green beans can make excellent substitutes, simply adjust the cooking time to ensure they become tender but not overcooked.

Perfecting the Simmer

Achieving the perfect simmer is crucial for this stew. After bringing the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer gently, uncovered. A gentle simmer maintains the integrity of the vegetables and allows the flavors to meld beautifully over the cooking time of 30-35 minutes. If you find that your stew is cooking too quickly, lower the heat further and consider placing a wooden spoon across the pot for better airflow and moisture control.

Visual cues for doneness include the lentils becoming tender yet firm, and the vegetables should have a slight bite remaining. If you find the stew too thick during simmering, add an extra half cup of vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This stew is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, allowing the flavors to deepen with time. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain the desired consistency, heating gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. Additionally, it freezes well for up to three months, making it a great option for quick meals later on. Portion it out into airtight containers before freezing for easy meal access.

For serving, consider pairing the Herbed Vegetable Lentil Stew with crusty bread or a side salad for balance. A sprinkle of fresh lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce just before serving can brighten the flavors further, making each bowl even more delightful.

Ingredients

For the Stew

1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 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 dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.

Add Vegetables and Lentils

Stir in carrots, celery, bell pepper, and zucchini. Next, add the rinsed lentils, stirring to combine.

Pour in Broth and Tomatoes

Add vegetable broth and diced tomatoes to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer.

Season and Cook

Add thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until lentils are tender.

Serve and Garnish

Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Once ready, serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can include a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end of cooking. This stew also freezes well, making it a great meal prep option.

Making It Your Own

This stew is highly adaptable, allowing you to customize it based on seasonal vegetables or personal preference. For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeño during the sauté phase. If you enjoy a Mediterranean twist, you could incorporate olives or feta cheese before serving. Simply adjust the herbs accordingly; adding basil or oregano could also enhance the flavor profile.

Vegetarian or vegan diets can easily incorporate a protein boost by adding some cooked quinoa or chickpeas along with the lentils. Just ensure that you adjust the liquid content slightly, as these ingredients can absorb some moisture during cooking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Encountering issues with lentils can happen, particularly if they don't seem to soften during cooking. This could be a sign that they are old or improperly stored. If you suspect this is the case, it’s wise to soak your lentils in water for a couple of hours beforehand, which can help them cook more evenly.

If you find your stew too salty, adding a diced potato can help absorb some of the excess salt while cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, balancing with a splash of vinegar or some fresh herbs right before serving can help cut through the saltiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew in advance?

Absolutely! This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to customize with your favorite seasonal vegetables. Just ensure they have a similar cooking time to lentils.

→ Is this stew vegan?

Yes, the stew is completely vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.