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: 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 yellow squash, diced; 1 red onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew because it's not only vibrant and colorful but also packed with nutrients. The convenience of throwing everything into the crockpot allows the flavors to meld beautifully while I carry on with my day. Each ingredient in this stew contributes its unique taste, making every spoonful a delightful experience. Plus, this recipe is versatile, so I can easily use what I have on hand, which always adds a personal touch. It's the perfect dish for a nourishing dinner with minimal effort.

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-01-13T21:10:18.821Z

Making this stew has become a ritual in my kitchen, especially during the cooler months. I love how I can customize it with seasonal vegetables, and I usually sneak in some extra garlic and herbs for a flavor boost. This method of slow cooking allows all the vegetables to soften and blend their flavors over time, creating a hearty, delicious meal that feels restorative and warming.

Recently, I experimented with adding a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end of cooking, and it elevated the whole dish. It adds a lovely tang that really complements the sweetness of the tomatoes. This tip has become a staple in my version of the stew, and I highly recommend trying it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A rainbow of vegetables packed with vitamins and antioxidants
Absolutely delicious with minimal prep work
Perfectly filling and comforting for any occasion

      

Choosing the Right Vegetables

When making this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew, selecting fresh, seasonal vegetables can elevate the dish to new heights. Shiny, unblemished skin indicates freshness, and vibrant colors often signal that the produce is packed with nutrients. For instance, pick carrots that are firm with a deep orange hue, and opt for bell peppers that feel heavy for their size. Each vegetable adds a distinct flavor profile; for example, the sweetness of the carrots and bell peppers complements the earthiness of the zucchini and squash beautifully.

Don't worry if you don't have all the vegetables on hand; this stew is highly adaptable. Feel free to replace the zucchini and yellow squash with eggplant or butternut squash for a different texture and taste. Just keep in mind that firmer vegetables might need a slightly longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly to ensure everything is tender by the stew's completion.

Seasoning for Depth of Flavor

The herbs you choose significantly impact the flavor profile of this stew. Fresh herbs can provide brighter notes, but dried ones work wonderfully too, particularly in a slow-cooked dish like this. I recommend using dried basil and oregano, as they both develop deeper flavors while cooking. To maximize their effectiveness, add them early in the cooking process, allowing the spices to bloom in the broth and infuse throughout the vegetables.

If you're looking for a twist, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added complexity and warmth. A dash of sugar can balance any acidity from the tomatoes, but be cautious—start with a small amount and adjust according to taste. These little tweaks can make a significant difference in how the stew's flavors come together.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew

Vegetables and Herbs

2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 zucchini, diced
1 yellow squash, diced
1 red onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing and peeling the vegetables as necessary. Dice the carrots, celery, red bell pepper, zucchini, yellow squash, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and trim the green beans.

Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

Add all the prepared vegetables, including the canned tomatoes and green beans, into the crockpot. Pour in the vegetable broth, and stir to combine.

Season the Stew

Sprinkle in the dried basil and oregano, and season with salt and pepper according to your taste.

Cook the Stew

Cover the crockpot and set it on low for about 4 hours or high for 2 hours, until the vegetables are tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the stew is done, give it a good stir and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Pro Tips

For added protein, you can toss in some cooked beans or lentils just before serving. This stew also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew is a fantastic make-ahead option. You can prepare the vegetables the night before and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just throw everything in the crockpot in the morning; it will cook beautifully while you tackle your day. This not only saves time but also allows the stew to develop richer flavors as it simmers.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and warm up on the stovetop over medium heat. If the stew thickens too much upon reheating, just add a splash of vegetable broth to achieve your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew experience, consider serving it with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread. Not only does this provide a perfect vehicle for scooping up the stew, but it also makes for a more filling meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a creamy, savory touch that complements the dish beautifully.

For a lighter option, serve the stew over a bed of cooked quinoa or brown rice. This not only adds a chewy texture but also increases the protein content of your meal. If you’re entertaining, consider offering a fresh green salad or a simple side of sautéed greens alongside—both will brighten the dinner table and round out the meal wonderfully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian, but you could also use vegetable broth to keep it plant-based.

→ What can I substitute for vegetable broth?

You can use water with added seasoning or homemade vegetable stock if you prefer.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

The stew can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Can I add meat to the stew?

Yes! You can add diced chicken or turkey, but it will require adjustments to the cooking time.