Soak the rice in warm water.
Place a large cooking pan over high heat and add the cups of water. When the water starts boiling add the lentils and lower the heat to medium. Cook for 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a pan and add the onions. Cook until golden and set aside.
When the lentils are ready, add the rice and cook for another 10 minutes. There should be about one cup or so of water left when you add the rice. If not, add additional water. When the rice lentil mix is ready, add the onions, salt, and pepper. Mix well.