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Red Lentil and Rice Casserole

Hearty Red Lentil and Rice Casserole for Cozy Nights

Enjoy this Red Lentil and Rice Casserole, a flavorful, protein-packed dish perfect for cozy dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 1 cup Red lentils Creamy texture, high in protein and fiber
  • 1 cup Long-grain white rice Fluffy grains that absorb flavors
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil Heart-healthy fat for sautéing
  • 1 medium Onion Adds natural sweetness
  • 2 cloves Garlic Infuses warmth and aroma
  • 1 medium Carrot Adds crunch and sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon Ground cumin Delivers toasty notes
  • 1 teaspoon Ground coriander Enhances brightness
  • 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Gives a golden hue
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Adds depth and heat
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavors
  • 2 cups Vegetable broth Keeps rice and lentils moist
  • 1 can Diced tomatoes Adds freshness
  • 1/4 cup Chopped parsley For garnish
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional) Adds richness
  • to taste Freshly ground black pepper Sharp finish

Equipment

  • Medium oven-safe skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Red Lentil and Rice Casserole
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a medium oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until translucent.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add diced carrot and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  4. Sprinkle in ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and salt. Toast for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Fold in rinsed red lentils and long-grain white rice, mixing well.
  6. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes.
  7. Stir in diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
  8. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until lentils and rice are tender.
  9. Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, and fluff with a fork. Stir in chopped parsley.
  10. Optional: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and black pepper before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 15gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 10gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This casserole is freezer-friendly and can be customized with seasonal vegetables. Watch cooking time and fluff before serving for best texture.

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