Mediterranean style Gnocchi & Lentil Tray Bake

This is one of those recipes that feels both easy and generous.

Everything cooks on one tray, the vegetables soften and caramelise, the gnocchi turns lightly golden, and the lentils add a subtle heartiness that makes it feel like a complete meal.

Finished with creamy goat’s cheese, fresh herbs and lemon, it has that balance of warmth and freshness that makes you want to keep coming back to it.

It works just as well served straight from the oven as it does packed up for the next day. A simple, satisfying option for mindful meal prep.

Serves

3 to 4

Ingredients

400–500g gnocchi

1 red pepper, sliced

1 courgette, sliced into half moons

1 red onion, sliced

2 garlic cloves, crushed

1 tin lentils (400g), drained and rinsed

Handful cherry tomatoes, optional (deseeded if storing)

Large handful spinach

Dressing

3 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 tbsp pesto, optional

1 tsp dried oregano or mixed herbs

Salt and black pepper

To finish

80–100g goat’s cheese

Handful Kalamata olives

Small handful fresh parsley

Small handful fresh mint

Optional basil

Zest of 1 lemon

Squeeze of lemon juice

Method

1. Preheat the oven
   Preheat to 200°C fan.

2. Prepare the tray
   Add the red pepper, courgette, red onion, garlic, lentils and cherry tomatoes to a large baking tray.

3. Make the dressing
   In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, pesto if using, oregano, salt and pepper.
   Pour over the tray and toss well to coat everything evenly.

4. First roast
   Roast for 15 to 20 minutes, until the vegetables are softening and starting to catch at the edges.

5. Add the gnocchi
   Add the gnocchi to the tray and toss gently to combine.
   Drizzle with a little extra olive oil if needed.

6. Second roast
   Return to the oven for 10 to 15 minutes, until the gnocchi is lightly golden and the vegetables are caramelised.

7. Finish
   Remove from the oven and stir through the spinach, allowing it to wilt.

8. Serve
   Top with crumbled goat’s cheese, olives and fresh herbs.
   Finish with lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Notes

Best served warm, but also keeps well in the fridge for a few days.

You can enjoy it as it is or add your choice of protein such as salmon or prawns.

If storing, add the lemon just before serving to keep everything fresh.

Mindful Moment

There is something satisfying about a meal that comes together so simply.

One tray, a handful of ingredients, and time in the oven to bring everything to life.

It is a reminder that good food does not need to be complicated.
Sometimes it is just about letting things cook, soften, and come together in their own time.

And allowing yourself to slow down enough to enjoy it.