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Quick and Easy Spiced Lentil Bowl


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  • Author: Yusra
  • Total Time: 45 minutes (includes marinating)
  • Yield: 2 servings
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

A quick, colorful, and nourishing lentil bowl packed with bold spices, fresh vegetables, and creamy avocado. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, with minimal cooking required.


Ingredients

  • Lentils:
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) lentils, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 medium English cucumber, diced
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup raw sunflower seeds
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Dressing:
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 teaspoons nutritional yeast
  • Juice of 1 medium lime (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional)
  • For Serving:
  • 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 2 cups mixed greens
  • 1 large avocado, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped

Instructions

  1. Add rinsed lentils to a large mixing bowl. Stir in red onion, cucumber, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, sunflower seeds, salt, and black pepper.
  2. In a small bowl or jar, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, coriander, red pepper flakes, nutritional yeast, lime juice, and maple syrup. Blend until smooth.
  3. Pour dressing over lentil mixture and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  4. To serve, divide rice between two bowls. Top with greens, marinated lentils, avocado slices, and fresh herbs.
  5. Adjust salt and pepper to taste before serving. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Can be served warm or cold, depending on preference.
  • Use quinoa, farro, or bulgur instead of rice for variety.
  • Omit red pepper flakes for a mild version.
  • Prepare lentil mixture ahead of time for easy lunches.
  • Add lime juice over avocado to prevent browning.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 14g
  • Protein: 16g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg