Herbed Vegetable Lentil Stew

Name: Herbed Vegetable Lentil Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 stalks celery, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnishing)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I truly believe that comfort food can also be healthy, and this Herbed Vegetable Lentil Stew is my favorite example. Packed with colorful vegetables and hearty lentils, it warms my soul on chilly days. The aroma of fresh herbs as it simmers fills my kitchen with an inviting scent that makes my family gather around the table. I love how easy it is to customize with whatever vegetables I have on hand, making it a versatile dish that's not only nutritious but also delicious!

Created by

Rosie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:25:14.003Z

When I first experimented with lentils, I was surprised at how they could transform a simple stew into something so hearty and satisfying. I remember trying this recipe on a rainy afternoon, and the comforting flavors helped lift my spirits instantly. Adding fresh herbs like thyme and parsley gives such a depth of flavor that each spoonful is bursting with goodness!

My tip for this recipe is to let it sit for a bit after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together, making each serving taste even better. Also, don’t hesitate to throw in any leftover vegetables you have—this stew is all about improvisation and enjoying what you have!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich in nutrients with a variety of vegetables
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
Comforting and filling without being heavy

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this stew is undoubtedly the brown lentils. They not only provide a hearty texture but also pack a protein punch, making this dish satisfying and nutritious. Rinsing the lentils before adding them to the pot removes any debris or dust, ensuring they cook evenly. If you're in a pinch, green lentils can be used as a substitute, but they may require slight adjustments in cooking time.

Vegetables are vital for adding layers of flavor to the stew. The combination of onion, carrot, and celery forms the classic mirepoix base, which enhances the overall taste. I recommend cutting the carrots and celery into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Variations like including parsnips or sweet potatoes can bring a touch of sweetness and additional nutrients.

Fresh herbs like parsley not only add a burst of color but also brightness to the stew. Using dried thyme is convenient and still offers a warm, earthy flavor. If you have fresh thyme on hand, feel free to substitute it; just double the amount, as fresh herbs are less concentrated.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Stew

Sautéing the vegetables at medium heat allows them to release their natural sweetness, deepening the flavor of your stew. Watch for the onions to become translucent before adding other ingredients; this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Avoid rushing this step, as proper sautéing creates a flavorful base.

When simmering the stew, keep an eye on the heat level. A gentle simmer, identified by tiny bubbles breaking the surface, is key to softening the lentils without disintegrating them. If the pot starts to boil violently, reduce the heat to maintain a steady simmer, which should take about 40 minutes depending on the freshness of your lentils.

Taste testing is crucial. After the stew simmers, give it a taste before serving. If you find it lacking flavor, a splash of vinegar or a pinch of additional salt can elevate the overall taste instantly. It’s better to adjust seasoning near the end rather than at the beginning.

Ingredients

For the Stew

1 cup brown lentils, rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 zucchini, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 teaspoons dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnishing)

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onions are translucent.

Add Garlic and Zucchini

Stir in the garlic and zucchini, cooking for another 3 minutes until they're slightly softened.

Combine Lentils and Broth

Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mix to a boil.

Simmer the Stew

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.

Serve and Garnish

Once ready, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice before serving for brightness!

Make-Ahead Tips

This Herbed Vegetable Lentil Stew is excellent for meal prepping. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week, store it in airtight containers, and have healthy lunches or dinners ready to go. It keeps well in the fridge for up to five days, developing even deeper flavors as it sits.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stew. Portion it into containers or freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will remain good for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.

Serving Suggestions

To make the meal even more satisfying, serve the stew over a bed of cooked quinoa or brown rice. This not only boosts the fiber content but also provides a complementary texture. Garnishing with a dollop of yogurt or avocado slices adds creaminess and richness.

You can also accompany the stew with crusty bread or a simple salad. A green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette balances the warmth of the stew beautifully, while crusty bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of broth.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of lentils?

Yes, you can use green or red lentils, but note that the cooking time may vary slightly.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Absolutely! Freeze in portion sizes for a quick meal later on.

→ What should I serve with this stew?

It's delicious on its own, but pairing it with crusty bread or a green salad works great too!