Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis, diced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, sliced; 1 cup green beans, chopped; 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love crafting wholesome meals, and this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew is a perfect example! Packed with vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs, it truly makes for a comforting dish that my family enjoys. Using the crockpot allows all the flavors to meld beautifully over time, which means less stress for me and more deliciousness for everyone. Whether you're looking for a light dinner or a filling lunch, this stew is both nourishing and satisfying, and you'll love how minimal effort it requires.

Created by

Ivy Richardson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T23:07:20.295Z

As I prepared this stew on a rainy day, the aroma of sautéed garlic and fresh herbs filled my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. I used seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and fresh tomatoes, which added both color and flavor to the mix. Each ingredient brings its unique essence to the stew.

Cooking it in the crockpot not only saves time but also enhances the flavors as they meld together. I found that adding a splash of balsamic vinegar just before serving elevates the taste, giving a delightful tang that balances the sweetness of the vegetables. It’s my go-to recipe for hectic weekdays!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with fresh, vibrant vegetables for optimal nutrition
Simple preparation, allowing flavors to develop while you go about your day
Perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners

      

Ingredient Insights

The vegetables in this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew not only contribute to the vibrant color but also provide essential nutrients. For instance, zucchinis are low in calories and high in water content, making them a great choice for hydration. Bell peppers add sweetness and a hefty dose of vitamin C. You can customize the vegetable mix based on seasonal availability or personal preference—substituting in eggplant or adding spinach can elevate the flavor profile and nutritional value.

Using canned or fresh tomatoes in this recipe can significantly impact the stew's texture. Fresh tomatoes will provide a lighter, brighter taste, while canned tomatoes will break down more during cooking, making the stew thicker. If using canned, opt for those packed in juice rather than syrup. This choice helps maintain the stew's natural flavors and avoids unwanted sweetness, ensuring that the final dish remains savory and satisfying.

Cooking Techniques

Cooking this stew in a crockpot allows for the slow melding of flavors. To ensure even cooking, cut all your vegetables into uniform pieces; aim for about 1-inch sizes. This sizing enables them to cook evenly and fully within the 6-hour time frame on low heat. If you're short on time, you can cook the stew on high for about 3-4 hours, but keep an eye on the vegetables to prevent overcooking.

When adding herbs and spices, consider their potency. Dried herbs take longer to release their flavors, so it's best to add them at the beginning of the cooking process. Fresh herbs, on the other hand, should be stirred in at the end for a bright flavor. If you don't have dried oregano or basil, Italian seasoning can work as a substitute, but make sure to adjust the quantity to avoid overpowering the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this hearty stew:

Vegetables

2 medium zucchinis, diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, sliced
1 cup green beans, chopped
2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 cup vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil

Herbs & Spices

1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you gather your ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your stew:

Prepare the Vegetables

In the crockpot, combine the diced zucchinis, chopped bell peppers, diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped green beans. Stir to mix well.

Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in the olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

Cook

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the vegetables are tender.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Enjoy your Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew warm!

This stew can be enjoyed alone or as a side dish. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider tossing in some cooked beans or lentils before serving. You can also switch up the vegetables based on what's in season or available in your pantry.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This stew is an excellent meal prep option. You can prepare it a day in advance; just store it in the refrigerator after it cools. The flavors will deepen and improve overnight, making it even tastier when reheated. If you prefer, you can also freeze the stew in an airtight container for up to three months. This dish holds up well to freezing, but avoid freezing with pasta, as it can become mushy upon reheating.

When reheating, you may need to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to rejuvenate the consistency, especially if it thickens too much in storage. Slowly reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat to avoid scorching, stirring frequently until warmed through. This gradual reheating enhances the flavors, making each bite delicious.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew, consider serving it with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley and a drizzle of good-quality olive oil. A dollop of pesto on top can also add a delightful twist, infusing more flavor. Pairing it with crusty whole-grain bread or a simple green salad can create a well-rounded meal that's satisfying and nutrient-rich.

For a more heartiness, you can add cooked quinoa or lentils right before serving. This not only amps up the protein but also gives the stew a delightful texture. Also, if you have leftovers, transforming them into a filling pasta sauce or mixing them with grains for a grain bowl could provide variety to your meals, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew in advance?

Absolutely! This stew tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this stew freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

Feel free to get creative! Potatoes, spinach, or any root vegetables can be great additions.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this stew is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly!