One-Pot Lentil and Rice Bowl

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-02 · Updated 2026-04-02

A hearty, protein-rich bowl simmered with aromatic vegetables and spices. Uses affordable pantry staples for a satisfying meal that costs less than $2 per serving. This Mediterranean-inspired one-pot recipe (vegetarian), ready in about 40 minutes, pairs Brown lentils, White rice, Vegetable broth for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 2, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup Brown lentils
• 1/2 cup White rice
• 1.5 cups Vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup, diced Onion
• 1/2 cup, diced Carrot
• 1 clove, minced Garlic
• 1/2 tsp Cumin
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black pepper
• 1 tsp Olive oil
• 1 tbsp, chopped Fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 1 tsp olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup diced onion and 1/2 cup diced carrot, and sauté for 3 minutes until softened and golden at the edges.
2. Step 2: Stir in 1 minced garlic clove, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant and aromatics are coated in oil.
3. Step 3: Add 1/2 cup rinsed brown lentils, 1/2 cup white rice, and 1.5 cups vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
4. Step 4: Remove from heat, let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Sprinkle with 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley before serving.