Carrot, Parsnip, and Lentil Casserole: Root Vegetable Harmony

Carrot, Parsnip, and Lentil Casserole is one of my favorite comforting vegetarian casserole dishes. It blends earthy vegetables with lentils to create a rich and filling casserole. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week.

Carrot, parsnip, and lentil casserole recipe

Carrot, parsnip, and lentil casserole is a hearty and nutritious dish. It’s ideal for cozy dinners or quick, nutritious leftovers. This recipe combines sweet root vegetables with protein-packed lentils for a satisfying bite. I love how simple ingredients create bold flavors that everyone enjoys.

This lentil casserole recipe can become a vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie. You need to reduce the liquid in the recipe and add more potato on top. I still stick with the casserole. This recipe never fails to delight with its nutritious and delicious qualities.

Here is how to make healthy lentil casserole with cheese.

Carrot, Parsnip and Lentil Casserole

A hearty vegetarian casserole that combines sweet carrots, earthy parsnips, and protein-rich lentils in a warming, one-pot meal.

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Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine French, Mediterranean

Servings 4

Calories 260 kcal

Ingredients

  

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• 3 carrots
• 2 parsnips
• 1 onion
• 1 clove garlic
• 1/2 cup red lentils
• 1 small can kidney beans
• 2 tsps cumin
• 1 tsp ginger
• 1 tsp finely chopped coriander
• 1 bay leaf
• Black pepper to taste
• 1 pint stock made using vegetable bouillon
• 2 medium potatoes
• 2 tbsps milk
• 1 tbsp butter
• Cheddar cheese to grate.

Instructions

 

• Finely chop the onion and garlic and put in a large pan with a little cooking oil. Saute until soft.
  
• Peel and roughly chop the carrots and parsnips. Add to the pan, along with the stock and bring to the boil. Add the lentils and herbs & spices, then put a lid on the pan and simmer until the vegetables are tender and the lentils are cooked (about 20 mins).
• Preheat the oven to 140^oC.
• Use a slotted spoon to transfer the veg and lentils into a casserole dish, then ladle enough of the liquid to cover them completely. Add the kidney beans and stir in. Put into the oven and cook until a slight skin forms on the top and the casserole is bubbling (30-40 mins).
• Meanwhile, make the mashed potato. Peel and chop the potatoes and place into a pan of boiling water. Simmer until the potatoes are completely tender.
  
• Remove from heat and add the milk and butter to the pan. Mash and season with salt, pepper, and a few dried mixed herbs.
• Carefully put spoonfuls of the mashed potato onto the vegetable casserole. Increase oven temp to 180^oC and return casserole to oven until the potato is just beginning to crisp on the top. (20-30 mins).
• Grate a small amount of hard cheese (mature cheddar is brilliant in this dish) over the potato.
• Allow to cool slightly so that it is not scalding, then serve with warm, crusty bread.

Notes

– If you want to turn this vegetarian lentil casserole recipe into savoury, you can add meat to the recipe, such as chicken, lamb, turkey, or beef

Nutrition

Calories: 260kcalCarbohydrates: 37gProtein: 12gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 500mgFiber: 9gSugar: 9g

Keyword baking recipes, casserole recipe, vegetarian recipe, winter recipe

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Pairing suggestions

Carrot, parsnip, and lentil casserole pairs well with various sides and accompaniments.

1. Food Pairings
   • Extra mashed potatoes with garlic or herbs enhance the meal.
   • Crusty bread complements the casserole, ideal for scooping flavors.
   • Green salad with vinaigrette contrasts with the hearty casserole.
   • Steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition.
   • Yogurt or sour cream adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor. Pickles or chutney adds a sweet, tangy contrast to the casserole.
2. White Wines:
   • Sauvignon Blanc complements earthy vegetables and lentils with its crisp acidity.
   • Unoaked Chardonnay enhances casserole flavors with bright acidity.
   • Verdejo pairs well with vegetable-forward dishes due to its light body.
3. Red Wines:
   • Pinot Noir pairs with carrots and parsnips through its earthy notes.
   • Grenache enhances sweet vegetable flavors with fruity and spicy notes.
4. Beer Pairings:
   • Light ale balances casserole richness with malty sweetness.
   • Crisp lager suits lighter dishes without overpowering flavors.
5. Non-Alcoholic Options:
   • Sparkling water cleanses the palate effectively between bites.
   • Herbal tea contrasts casserole flavors with its mildness.

Variations

Carrot, parsnip, and lentil casseroles can be adapted in various ways. Below are several variations based on different recipes.

1. Flavor Profiles
   • Spiced Variations use spices such as cumin, coriander, or smoked paprika. They add warmth and depth and complement the earthiness of the dish.
   • Herb Infusions adds fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley. These herbs provide freshness and aromatics.
2. Cultural Inspirations
   • Middle Eastern influence uses tahini or harissa for unique flavors. These ingredients pair well with lentils.
   • Indian spices like curry powder or garam masala enhance the casserole. These spices give an Indian-inspired twist.
3. Topping Options:
   • Breadcrumbs mixed with cheese add a crunchy texture.
   • A mashed potato layer creates a shepherd’s pie twist.
4. Vegetables like zucchini or sweet potatoes introduce layered textures. Layers create a more complex texture and flavor profile.
5. Protein Additions like chickpeas or quinoa make the dish heartier. This protein balances and fills the casserole.
6. Vegan Version uses plant-based cheeses and butter for creaminess. Almon milk offers dairy-free options.

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