Description
A wholesome and comforting vegetarian casserole made with protein-rich lentils, colorful vegetables, tomatoes, herbs, and melted cheese. This hearty one-dish meal is nutritious, filling, and perfect for a healthy family dinner.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Legumes and Liquids
- 2 cups cooked green or brown lentils
- 1 can diced tomatoes (about 14.5 oz)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Oil
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and red bell pepper and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add Zucchini and Garlic: Stir in the diced zucchini and minced garlic, cooking for another 2 minutes to release their flavors.
- Combine Liquids and Spices: Add the canned diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer Mixture: Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes on medium-low heat, letting the flavors meld together and the liquid reduce slightly.
- Incorporate Lentils: Stir in the cooked lentils thoroughly, ensuring they are evenly distributed within the vegetable and tomato mixture.
- Transfer to Casserole Dish: Spoon the lentil and vegetable mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and serve warm for a comforting main dish.
Notes
- Use canned lentils for quicker preparation if you don’t have time to cook dried lentils.
- Add spinach, mushrooms, or eggplant for extra vegetables and enhanced flavor.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based cheese alternatives or omit the cheese entirely.
- Serve with a fresh green salad or whole-grain bread to complement the casserole.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Casserole, Vegetarian
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
