Wholesome Veggie-Lentil Loaf Recipe: Rustic Comfort On A Plate

Packed with nutrient-dense ingredients, this delectable hearty vegetable lentil loaf recipe blends rich, earthy flavors into a satisfying plant-based meal.

Lentils provide a robust protein foundation that anchors the wholesome vegetable medley.

Chopped carrots, onions, and bell peppers mingle seamlessly with aromatic herbs and spices.

Each slice promises a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will surprise even dedicated meat lovers.

The rustic loaf emerges golden-brown and fragrant from the oven, promising a comforting dining experience.

Seasoned with thyme and rosemary, this loaf delivers incredible depth and warmth to your dinner table.

Serve alongside a crisp salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and nourishing meal that celebrates simple, fresh ingredients.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Calories: 360 kcal

Servings: 6

Veggie Lentil Loaf Ingredient Rundown

• Lentils: Hearty protein powerhouse that provides the meaty texture and nutritional backbone of the loaf.
• Vegetable Broth: Infuses rich flavor and helps cook lentils with savory depth.
• Flaxseed: Creates binding moisture and acts as an excellent egg replacement with super nutrition.

• Onion, Carrots, Celery, Garlic: Aromatic dream team that builds complex flavor layers and provides incredible nutritional boost.
• Olive Oil: Helps sauté vegetables and adds silky smoothness to the mixture.

• Breadcrumbs, Oats: Crisp texture creators that help hold the loaf together and add subtle nutty undertones.
• Walnuts: Delivers delightful crunch and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
• Soy Sauce: Introduces umami depth and salty complexity.
• Thyme, Oregano, Smoked Paprika: Herbal and smoky seasoning heroes that elevate the entire dish.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential flavor balancers that wake up all other ingredients.

• Ketchup, Maple Syrup: Sweet and tangy base for irresistible caramelized coating.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Adds sophisticated tang and depth to the glaze.
• Dijon Mustard: Provides sharp, zesty kick to complement the sweetness.

Tools for a Flavorful Lentil Loaf Bake

• Loaf Pan: Essential for shaping and baking the lentil loaf evenly.
• Large Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining all ingredients thoroughly.
• Large Skillet: Needed for sautéing vegetables to develop rich flavors.
• Medium Saucepan: Used for cooking lentils until tender.
• Small Bowls: Great for mixing flax egg and preparing glaze.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Crucial for accurate ingredient quantities.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Helps mix ingredients and spread mixture in pan.
• Whisk: Useful for creating smooth glaze.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents loaf from sticking and eases removal.

How to Bake a Vegetable Loaf That Holds Up

• Prep the Lentil Base

Wash lentils and simmer in vegetable broth until tender and soft. Let them cool down after draining any extra liquid.

• Sizzle the Veggie Medley

Heat oil in a skillet and toss in chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until vegetables become fragrant and tender.

• Create the Binding Magic

Mix ground flaxseed with water to form a gel-like consistency. This will help hold everything together in your loaf.

• Combine and Blend Flavors

Mix cooked lentils, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, oats, crushed walnuts, flax mixture, soy sauce, ketchup, and spices. Blend until ingredients stick together nicely.

• Shape and Glaze

Press mixture into a lined loaf pan. Whisk together ketchup, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard to create a delicious glaze. Spread evenly on top.

• Bake to Perfection

Slide the loaf into a preheated oven at 375°F. Bake until the top turns golden and firm, about 45-50 minutes.

• Rest and Serve

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your hearty plant-powered creation!

Seasoning Ideas for Hearty Plant-Based Meals

• Prep the lentil mixture up to 2 days in advance and store covered in the refrigerator, helping busy home cooks save time during hectic weeknights.
• Mash half the lentils before mixing to create a more cohesive loaf that holds together beautifully and prevents crumbling when sliced.
• Replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make this recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Experiment with adding cooked quinoa or hemp seeds for an extra protein boost, making the loaf even more nutritionally dense and satisfying for plant-based eaters.
• Try different herbs like rosemary or sage, or swap out walnuts for sunflower seeds to create unique flavor profiles that keep the recipe exciting and adaptable to personal taste preferences.

Serving Lentil Loaf With Bold Sauces

• Hearty Side Salad Companion: Create a crisp green salad with mixed leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a zesty vinaigrette to complement the rich, savory lentil loaf.
• Protein-Packed Plate Partner: Serve alongside roasted quinoa or brown rice for an extra protein boost and added nutritional value that enhances the meal's texture and flavor profile.
• Tangy Sauce Drizzle: Prepare a quick vegan yogurt-based sauce with fresh herbs like dill or parsley, adding a creamy and bright element that cuts through the loaf's dense consistency.
• Weekend Meal Presentation: Slice the lentil loaf and arrange on a rustic wooden board with fresh herb garnishes, creating an Instagram-worthy meal that looks as delicious as it tastes.

Store Loaf Slices So They Stay Moist

• Store leftover lentil loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
• Slice the loaf completely, then place parchment paper between each slice. Pack in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Frozen lentil loaf stays delicious for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or restore crispiness by placing in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. Add a splash of vegetable broth to prevent dryness during reheating.
• Cut the loaf into portions and store in single-serving containers. Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for quick, nutritious meals throughout the week. Label containers with the date to track freshness.

Hearty Vegetable Lentil Loaf Recipe

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4.9 from 20 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 7 1x

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Description

Hearty vegetable lentil loaf brings Mediterranean comfort to plant-based dining, blending robust legumes with garden-fresh ingredients. Savory slices deliver richness and nutrition, inviting you to savor each delicious, wholesome bite.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup dry lentils (green or brown)
• 2.5 cups (590 ml) vegetable broth (or water)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated carrots
• 1 cup finely chopped celery
• 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 0.5 cup rolled oats
• 0.5 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free)
• 0.25 cup ground flaxseed (or 2 tbsps chia seeds)
• 0.25 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsps soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (vegan if needed)
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 0.25 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsps maple syrup (or honey if not vegan)
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

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Instructions

1. Lentil Preparation: Cleanse lentils under running water, then simmer in vegetable broth until tender and liquid is mostly absorbed. Drain excess liquid and allow to cool slightly.
2. Vegetable Sautéing: Heat olive oil in a skillet and gently cook onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until they become translucent and soft. Remove from heat.
3. Flax Binding: Create a gelatinous mixture by combining ground flaxseed with water, letting it rest for several minutes to develop a binding consistency.
4. Mixture Composition: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine cooked lentils, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, oats, walnuts, flax egg, soy sauce, ketchup, herbs, spices, salt, and pepper. Ensure the mixture holds together firmly, adding vegetable broth if needed for proper moisture.
5. Loaf Formation: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper and firmly press the mixture into the pan, creating a smooth, compact surface.
6. Glaze Creation: Whisk ketchup, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard into a harmonious, glossy coating.
7. Baking Process: Spread glaze evenly over the loaf and bake for 45-50 minutes until the surface turns golden and firm.
8. Resting and Serving: Allow the loaf to rest in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing, ensuring clean and stable portions.

Notes

• Control the liquid content carefully, as lentils can quickly become too dry or too wet. Add vegetable broth sparingly if the mixture seems crumbly, ensuring a cohesive texture.
• Press the mixture firmly into the pan to create a compact loaf that holds together well when sliced. Use the back of a spatula or your hands to pack the ingredients tightly.
• Toast nuts and herbs briefly before adding to intensify their flavors and add depth to the overall taste profile of the lentil loaf.
• Swap breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or ground oats for those with gluten sensitivities. Replace nuts with seeds if nut allergies are a concern.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 7
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 5 g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4.5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Protein: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg