Easy Lentil and Vegetable Casserole Perfect for Any Night

Craving a hearty, healthy meal that's perfect for vegetarians and those health-conscious home cooks? Look no further than this delicious Lentil and Vegetable Casserole. Not only is it packed with nutrition, but it's also easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

• Lentils:
• 1 cup of green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
• Vegetables:
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Herbs and Seasonings:
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Additional Ingredients:
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional for topping)

Preparation

Rinsing and Preparing the Lentils

1. Rinse the lentils under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Place the rinsed lentils in a pot with 2 cups of water.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer for about 15-20 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.

Preparing the Vegetables

1. Chop the carrots, celery, onion, bell pepper, and zucchini into bite-sized pieces.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Sauté the onions and garlic until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the carrots, celery, and bell pepper to the skillet, cooking for another 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
5. Stir in the zucchini and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Assembly

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Layer the bottom of a casserole dish with half of the cooked lentils.
3. Spread half of the sautéed vegetables over the lentils.
4. Repeat the layers with the remaining lentils and vegetables.

Seasoning and Flavoring

1. Sprinkle the dried thyme, dried oregano, and bay leaf over the top.
2. Pour the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes evenly over the layers.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Baking Instructions

1. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheese on top if desired.
4. Bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly (if using) and the casserole is heated through.

Serving Suggestions

This Lentil and Vegetable Casserole pairs wonderfully with:

• A fresh green salad
• Garlic bread
• Steamed rice or quinoa

Storage and Reheating

1. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
2. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through.

Conclusion

Give this Lentil and Vegetable Casserole a try and feel free to add your own personal touches. Not only is it a nutritious choice, but it's also a versatile dish that can easily be customized to suit your taste. Enjoy the rich flavors and health benefits of this wholesome meal!