Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6.0
Ingredients: 2 cups chopped carrots; 2 cups chopped celery; 1 cup chopped onion; 2 cups chopped zucchini; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 tsp dried basil; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Wellness Ideas

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew on busy days when I want a nutritious meal without much hassle. It's an incredibly easy recipe, requiring just a handful of fresh vegetables and herbs. The beauty of this stew is not just how simple it is but also how flavorful it turns out after simmering in the crockpot. Sharing it with family and friends brings so much joy, especially when they ask for seconds. It's a go-to dish that fills my kitchen with delightful aromas while providing a wholesome meal.

Created by

Marnie Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:49:34.829Z

When I first tried making this stew, I was amazed at how all the flavors blended together to create a rich and hearty dish. Using seasonal vegetables not only enhances the taste but also boosts the nutritional profile of the stew. I like to incorporate fresh basil and oregano for a burst of flavor, making each bite truly delightful.

One key tip I’ve learned is to add the vegetables in layers, starting with the sturdier ones like carrots and potatoes at the bottom, and then topping them with softer vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. This technique ensures even cooking, and it prevents the delicate veggies from turning mushy.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Packed with nutrient-rich vegetables for a healthy boost
Aromatic herbs and spices elevate the flavor remarkably
Effortless preparation – just set it and forget it!

      

Ingredient Insights

Each vegetable in this stew plays a crucial role in not only flavor but also nutrition. Carrots, rich in beta-carotene, lend sweetness and texture, while celery adds a refreshing crunch and balances the overall flavor. Onions provide depth and a subtle sweetness that enhance the dish as it simmers. Don't hesitate to customize the vegetable selection; for instance, you could add in green beans or spinach if you prefer different greens, maintaining the vibrant colors and health benefits.

The herbs in this stew are not mere seasonings but are essential for creating the dish's signature Italian flavor profile. Dried basil and oregano contribute aromatic notes that become more pronounced as they meld with the vegetables during cooking. If you have fresh herbs available, feel free to substitute them for a brighter taste—use three times the amount, as fresh herbs are less concentrated than dried. Just remember to add them in the last hour of cooking to preserve their flavor.

Cooking Tips

While this stew is set-and-forget, be mindful of the size of your vegetable cuts. Aim for even, bite-sized pieces to ensure all ingredients cook uniformly, preventing mushy or overcooked chunks. If you find the zucchini breaks down too much for your preference, you can add it halfway through cooking—about 4 hours into a low cook will keep them tender but not mushy.

For those cooking in high heat, it’s important to keep an eye on liquid levels. Since high cooking times can vary, check halfway to ensure the vegetables aren’t drying out. If needed, sprinkle in an additional cup of vegetable broth to maintain moisture and create a delightful, broth-filled base to serve over grains or bread.

Serving and Storing

This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen, making it an ideal make-ahead meal. After cooking, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, fbxplace in a pot over medium heat, stirring until warmed through, or microwave in 1-minute increments, stirring in between—this way, it heats evenly without losing its texture.

Serving suggestions are versatile with this stew. Pair it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to enhance the umami flavors or add a dollop of pesto before serving for an extra burst of freshness. A slice of crusty bread on the side or a scoop of quinoa can elevate this vegetable stew into a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your comforting stew:

Ingredients

2 cups chopped carrots
2 cups chopped celery
1 cup chopped onion
2 cups chopped zucchini
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
2 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to rinse the vegetables well before chopping!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your stew:

Prepare the Vegetables

Wash, peel, and chop all the vegetables into even-sized pieces for uniform cooking.

Layer in the Crockpot

Place the carrots and celery at the bottom of the crockpot, followed by onion, zucchini, and bell pepper.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, vegetable broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper over the layered vegetables.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until all vegetables are tender.

Serve

Once cooked, give it a stir and serve warm with bread or over rice.

Enjoy your delicious stew with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this stew with your favorite vegetables or add beans for extra protein!

Flavor Variations

To keep this dish exciting, consider incorporating different flavor profiles. A splash of balsamic vinegar can elevate the stew with a touch of acidity, balancing out the sweetness of the vegetables. Alternatively, adding a few red pepper flakes can introduce a spicy kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat. Experimenting with additional spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder can also add depth and richness.

If you're looking to add protein to the stew, lentils make an excellent choice without compromising the dish's vegetarian appeal. Add 1 cup of rinsed lentils with the other ingredients, increasing the broth slightly to ensure everything cooks evenly. This addition not only makes the stew heartier but also boosts its nutritional profile.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you're ever faced with watery stew, this can often be a result of additional liquid from the tomatoes. Next time, consider draining some of their juice before adding them to the crockpot or increasing the cooking time to allow excess liquid to evaporate. Similarly, if the stew is too thick, just stir in a bit of warm vegetable broth until you reach your desired consistency.

In the event you've seasoned it a bit too heavily with salt, a simple remedy is to add a peeled potato to the stew while cooking. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes before removing it; the potato will absorb some of the saltiness. Keep an eye out for your flavors during the last hour of cooking; it's always easier to adjust at the end!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but they may alter the texture slightly.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and simply reheat it when ready to serve.

→ Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as your vegetable broth is gluten-free.