Herbed Lentils And Rice
Herbed lentils and rice combine hearty textures with aromatic herbs, creating a nutritious and flavorful dish perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings. The melting Swiss cheese adds richness, making this comforting casserole appealing to vegetarians and meat-eaters alike seeking a wholesome, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chicken broth, lentils, chopped onion, brown rice, white wine, basil, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, and pepper in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into an ungreased 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Shred 1/2 ounce of Swiss cheese and stir it into the casserole.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring twice, until the lentils and rice are tender.
- Uncover the casserole and cut the remaining Swiss cheese into strips.
- Top the casserole with the cheese strips.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider sautéing the onions in a bit of olive oil before mixing them with the other ingredients. If you don't have Swiss cheese, Gruyère or mozzarella can work as alternatives. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. Adjust the herbs to your taste; fresh herbs can enhance the flavor further.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You might also consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a heartier option. Drizzling a bit of balsamic reduction over the top can elevate the flavor. For a Mediterranean twist, serve with pita bread and hummus.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Herbed Lentils and Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist and microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herbed Lentils And Rice contains roughly 396 calories, with 16g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (97% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (79% of the Daily Value), and calcium (77% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. At about 396 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice; however, you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts as brown rice typically takes longer to cook. Make sure to increase the cooking time to about 2 to 2 1/2 hours and monitor the liquid level to ensure the lentils and rice remain tender.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegan, simply substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The flavors from the herbs and the other ingredients will still create a delicious and satisfying meal without the animal products.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking, and then follow the baking instructions as usual.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).