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: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 zucchini, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup green beans, trimmed; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Highlighted under: Balanced Planning

I love making my Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew on busy days when I want a nutritious meal without much fuss. This dish is packed with vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs that create a deliciously comforting experience as it simmers away in the slow cooker. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also boosts my mood with its fresh flavors. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep, allowing me to enjoy wholesome leftovers throughout the week.

Created by

Francesca Holt

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:46:37.564Z

When I first experimented with this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew, I didn’t expect the flavors to meld together so beautifully. Using a variety of seasonal vegetables not only adds vibrant colors but also nutrients, making each bowl a healthy powerhouse. The slow cooking method allows the herbs and spices to fully infuse, resulting in a deeply satisfying dish.

I found that adding a splash of balsamic vinegar just before serving brightens the stew and enhances its natural sweetness. This little tip takes the dish to the next level and makes it a hit at family dinners!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with fiber-rich vegetables for a wholesome meal
Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup using the crockpot
Great for leftovers and meal prep throughout the week

Ingredient Insights

The vegetables in this stew play a crucial role in both flavor and nutrition. Zucchini adds a mild taste and soft texture, while carrots provide sweetness and vibrant color. Using fresh or frozen green beans can enhance the stew's texture; if using frozen, add them during the last hour of cooking to prevent overcooking. Additionally, bell peppers can be swapped with other varieties, like poblano or even spicy jalapeño, for a bolder kick.

The aromatics, particularly garlic and onion, not only contribute to the dish's rich flavor but also create a fragrant base. For a deeper flavor, consider sautéing the garlic and onion in olive oil before adding them to the crockpot. This step enhances their sweetness and reduces any sharpness, resulting in a smoother stew overall. Don’t hesitate to add more herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of complexity.

Cooking Technique

Cooking the stew in a crockpot allows flavors to meld beautifully over time. If you prefer a more pronounced taste, consider cooking on low heat for 6-8 hours instead of the recommended 4 hours. This longer simmering period helps the herbs penetrate the vegetables fully, resulting in a more aromatic and flavorful dish. Keep an eye on the liquid levels—if it seems too thick, adding a bit of water or broth towards the end can help achieve the desired consistency.

Stirring occasionally during the cooking process is beneficial for distributing heat evenly, although it’s optional. If you find the ingredients are sticking a bit at the edges, it’s a sign that more liquid might be needed. When the vegetables are tender yet maintain some structure, it indicates a perfect cook for this stew. You want your zucchini to be soft but not mushy to maintain a delightful contrast in textures.

Ingredients

Vegetables

1 zucchini, diced
2 carrots, sliced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup green beans, trimmed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth

Herbs and Seasoning

2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing and chopping all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and quickly in the crockpot.

Combine Ingredients

In the crockpot, combine the chopped vegetables, canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix everything together.

Cook the Stew

Cover the crockpot and set it on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours. It’s ready when the vegetables are tender.

Final Touches

Once cooked, stir in the olive oil and balsamic vinegar if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.

Serve hot with crusty bread or over a bed of quinoa for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra protein boost, feel free to add cooked lentils or chickpeas before cooking. They blend beautifully with the vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew is highly versatile when it comes to serving options. A dollop of creamy yogurt or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can enhance the overall flavor profile, bringing richness to the dish. For a heartier meal, serve it over a bed of quinoa or alongside a slice of crusty whole-grain bread, which allows you to soak up every bit of delicious broth.

Another great serving idea is to transform this stew into a pasta dish. Simply cook your favorite pasta separately and stir it into the stew just before serving. This adds carbohydrates and texture, making your meal more filling. Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top as a final touch not only elevates presentation but also adds a burst of freshness.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This stew is perfect for meal prep, and it stores exceptionally well. After cooking, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it lasts up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over medium heat until hot throughout or microwave it in short increments, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the stew. It can be stored in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop. The vegetables will retain their flavors well, but be mindful that some textures, particularly zucchini, may soften further upon reheating. However, a splash of extra broth can refresh it nicely!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well too! Just add them directly to the crockpot without thawing.

→ How long does this stew last in the fridge?

The stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure it's in an airtight container.

→ Can I add meat to this stew?

Absolutely! Feel free to add cooked chicken or sausage for added flavor and protein.

→ Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any broth used is also gluten-free.