One-Pot Smoky Lentil and Roasted Red Pepper Stew

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-06-23 · Updated 2026-06-23

A hearty, smoky vegetarian stew combining earthy lentils and sweet roasted red peppers simmered with warming spices. This Mediterranean-inspired vegetarian recipe, ready in about 50 minutes, pairs dry brown lentils, roasted red peppers, yellow onion for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, 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 cup dry brown lentils
• 2 medium, diced roasted red peppers
• 1 medium, finely chopped yellow onion
• 3 cloves, minced garlic cloves
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp, chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

The Dutch oven we’d braise this in → Best Dutch Ovens for 2026: Top Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 medium finely chopped yellow onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
2. Step 2: Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and 1 tsp ground cumin, cooking for 1 minute until spices release their aroma.
3. Step 3: Add 1 cup dry brown lentils and 4 cups vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25 minutes.
4. Step 4: Stir in 2 medium diced roasted red peppers, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Continue simmering for another 10 minutes until lentils are tender and the stew thickens.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice and 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm for a comforting meal.