Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 cup diced carrots; 1 cup diced celery; 1 cup chopped zucchini; 1 cup chopped bell peppers; 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love how effortless it is to prepare a delicious meal with my Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew. Just toss in a variety of fresh vegetables, let the slow cooker do its magic, and within hours, I have a wholesome dish bursting with flavor. The combination of Italian herbs and ripe tomatoes creates a rich, aromatic base that not only nourishes the body but also pleases the palate. Plus, it's an excellent way to incorporate more veggies into my diet without the fuss of elaborate cooking methods.

Created by

Callie Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-13T20:40:15.812Z

Preparing this stew has become a weekend ritual for me. I love experimenting with seasonal vegetables, which not only enhance the flavor but also provide a vibrant palette to the dish. My secret is to sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot; this step elevates the depth of flavor, making the stew even more aromatic.

It's truly rewarding to watch the vegetables infuse their sweetness into the broth as it simmers. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility- feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or what you have on hand. It's a comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly evenings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich variety of vegetables packed with nutrients
Infused with classic Italian flavors that tantalize the taste buds
Effortless preparation, perfect for busy days

      

Choosing the Right Vegetables

One of the beauties of this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew is its versatility. You can use a wide range of vegetables depending on what's in season or what you have on hand. For example, while zucchini and bell peppers are classic choices, feel free to incorporate vegetables like eggplant or butternut squash for added sweetness and texture. Just remember to adjust cooking times if you add denser vegetables, as they may require a bit longer to become tender.

In addition to fresh produce, frozen vegetables can be a convenient alternative, especially when certain veggies aren't in season. If using frozen green beans or peas, add them to the stew during the last hour of cooking to preserve their bright color and snap. This way, you still achieve that delightful variety of textures and flavors without sacrificing convenience.

Flavor Enhancements

To amplify the stew's Italian essence, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a tablespoon of tomato paste during the cooking process. This will enhance the richness of the tomatoes and infuse a deeper, more complex flavor profile. I also love to finish the stew with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving; it adds a vibrant, fresh note that beautifully complements the cooked vegetables.

Another tip for elevating the stew is to include a pinch of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a little heat. One-half teaspoon is a great starting point, allowing the flavors to develop without overpowering the dish. Don’t forget that tasting as you go can help you find the perfect balance of flavors.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This stew stores exceptionally well, making it an ideal make-ahead meal. After cooking, allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for up to three months. If you freeze the stew, remember to leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen.

When you're ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. If the stew appears too thick after reheating, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. This approach not only helps prevent wastage but also offers a quick, nutritious meal to warm you up on chilly days.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a nourishing stew that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 cup diced carrots
1 cup diced celery
1 cup chopped zucchini
1 cup chopped bell peppers
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to adjust the vegetables to your liking or according to what is in season.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your hearty stew in a crockpot.

Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by chopping all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. This promotes even cooking and makes it easy to enjoy each ingredient.

Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine in Crockpot

Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to the crockpot. Add the diced tomatoes, carrots, celery, zucchini, bell peppers, green beans, vegetable broth, oregano, and basil.

Season and Cook

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the crockpot on low and cook for about 4 hours, or until the vegetables are tender.

Serve

Once cooked, stir gently and taste for seasoning adjustments. Serve warm with crusty bread or over grains for a satisfying meal.

Enjoy this wholesome stew as a hearty meal or a side dish to your favorite entrée.

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider throwing in some beans or chickpeas during the last hour of cooking. You can also enhance the flavor with a splash of balsamic vinegar just before serving.

Ingredient Spotlight: Tomatoes

Tomatoes are the star ingredient of this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew, contributing both moisture and depth of flavor. Whether you opt for fresh or canned, using high-quality tomatoes is key; look for San Marzano tomatoes if using canned, as they are known for their sweetness and low acidity. If using fresh, ensure they're ripe for the best taste, and consider roasting them beforehand to caramelize their natural sugars and enhance their flavor even further.

The acid in tomatoes also acts as a balancing agent, brightening the flavors of the stew and helping to meld the various ingredients together. Remember, if you're sensitive to acidity, adding a pinch of sugar can effectively counterbalance the sharpness, achieving a more rounded flavor.

Customization Ideas

Customization is part of the fun with this stew! If you're looking to add protein, consider including beans or lentils, which not only boost the nutritional content but also add heartiness. Canned chickpeas or cannellini beans can be added in the last hour of cooking to keep them intact. For a meatier version, diced chicken or Italian sausage can be browned and added to the crockpot; just remember to increase the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is thoroughly cooked.

Moreover, serving options can elevate the meal experience. Consider ladling the stew over a bed of quinoa, brown rice, or whole-grain pasta for added substance. Alternatively, serving it with crusty bread for dipping can make for a comforting meal, enhancing both texture and flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well, but they may slightly alter the cooking time.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

Leftover stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Can I make this stew in advance?

Absolutely! This stew tastes even better the next day; just reheat it gently.

→ Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your broth label.