Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 h
Total time: 5 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups diced tomatoes; 1 cup chopped carrots; 1 cup chopped celery; 1 cup diced zucchini; 1 cup chopped bell peppers; 1 cup green beans, trimmed; 1 cup chopped onions; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 2 teaspoons dried basil; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 bay leaf; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew for my family. It’s not just a delicious way to enjoy a variety of vegetables, but it’s also exceptionally easy to prepare. I simply chop everything up, throw it into the crockpot, and let it do the work. The combination of herbs brings out the natural flavors of the vegetables, creating a comforting dish that's perfect for any season. Plus, it’s nutritious and keeps well, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week!

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2026-01-13T20:16:17.998Z

Each time I make this stew, I feel like I'm giving my body a warm hug. The blend of fresh vegetables simmering together creates a delightful aroma that fills my kitchen. I typically like to use seasonal vegetables, which enhances the flavor and nutrition. After several attempts, I found that adding a splash of balsamic vinegar an hour before serving helps to intensify the taste, making it even more scrumptious.

This recipe is perfect for those busy weekdays when I want to come home to a hot meal. The crockpot does all the work for me, and I can customize it with whatever vegetables I have on hand. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a hearty meal that’s both satisfying and good for my health—it’s quickly become a family favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with vibrant vegetables and rich flavors
Effortless preparation for busy days
Nutritious and light without sacrificing taste

      

Maximizing Flavor Through Preparation

One of the highlights of this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew is how the flavors develop over time. By chopping all vegetables into uniform bite-sized pieces, you ensure even cooking and the best texture. Aim for a mix of soft and firm vegetables; for instance, pairing zucchini with carrots allows for varied texture that keeps each bite interesting. Remember, ingredients like garlic should be minced finely, as this will help release its aromatic oils into the broth while cooking.

When it comes to herbs, fresh will always bring a brighter flavor profile. However, if you're using dried herbs, give them a little 'wake-up' by rubbing them between your fingers before adding them to the vegetables. This tiny step helps release their essential oils, maximizing flavor even if you’re in a pinch with your pantry stock.

Smart Storage and Serving Suggestions

This stew is not only hearty but also great for meal prep. Once cooled, divide it into airtight containers and store in the fridge for up to 5 days. To freeze, portion it into freezer-safe bags and lay them flat for space-saving. Ensure to leave some headspace in the bags as the stew will expand as it freezes. When you're ready to enjoy it, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until steaming.

Serving this stew with crusty bread is a classic choice, perfect for dunking and sopping up the rich broth. If you're looking for an alternative, serve it over cooked quinoa or brown rice for added protein and fiber. For a slight twist, consider topping each bowl with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil to enhance the flavors just before serving.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew

Vegetables

2 cups diced tomatoes
1 cup chopped carrots
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup diced zucchini
1 cup chopped bell peppers
1 cup green beans, trimmed
1 cup chopped onions
3 cloves garlic, minced

Spices & Herbs

2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons dried basil
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 bay leaf

Liquid

4 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (optional)

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or beans for extra protein!

Instructions

Instructions for Cooking

Prepare the Vegetables

Chop all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces and place them in the crockpot.

Add Spices and Liquid

Sprinkle the dried herbs, salt, and pepper over the vegetables. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the bay leaf.

Cook

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 5 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the vegetables are tender.

Finish with Balsamic

One hour before serving, stir in the balsamic vinegar to enhance the flavor.

Serve

Remove the bay leaf and serve hot. Enjoy with crusty bread or over rice.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Pro Tips

For added protein, try incorporating chickpeas or lentils into the stew. Adjust cooking times accordingly if using dried beans.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you find yourself low on certain vegetables, feel free to get creative! This stew can incorporate a variety of seasonal veggies, such as mushrooms for earthiness or sweet potatoes for a hint of natural sweetness. You can also swap out the green beans with peas or even corn, which will add a different texture and sweetness.

In case you are looking to lighten the dish, replace the vegetable broth with water for a broth-free option, but I recommend adding a little more salt and herbs to maintain its flavor. If you prefer complexity, a splash of white wine added before cooking can deepen the stew's richness.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Texture

To ensure all vegetables are perfectly cooked, layer your firmer vegetables, like carrots and celery, at the bottom of the crockpot and softer ones (like zucchini and bell peppers) on top. This helps them cook evenly without becoming mushy. Additionally, if you're using frozen veggies, throw them in without thawing; they’ll cook through perfectly in the crockpot.

Keep in mind the cooking times: cooking on low for 5 hours yields a more deeply infused flavor, while 3 hours on high means a quicker meal with a fresher taste. Always check for doneness around the two-hour mark if you're on high—it helps prevent overcooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

→ Is this stew vegan?

Absolutely! It’s made entirely from plant-based ingredients.

→ How can I thicken the stew?

You can thicken the stew by adding a cornstarch slurry or letting it cook uncovered for the last hour.

→ Can I prepare this a day ahead?

Yes, you can pre-chop the vegetables and store them in the refrigerator. Just add them to the crockpot when you're ready to cook.