Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
I absolutely love coming home to a warm, hearty dish that’s been cooking all day, and this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew is one of my all-time favorites. It's packed with vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs, making it a wholesome meal that my whole family enjoys. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just chop the ingredients, toss them in the crockpot, and let it do the work for you. Trust me, there's nothing like the rich flavors that develop over a long, slow cook!
When I first made this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew, I was blown away by how quickly it became a household favorite. I experimented with various vegetables and spices that would complement one another, and the result was a flavorful medley that brings comfort on even the chilliest days. Each ingredient retains its natural essence while merging beautifully with others to create a truly delicious outcome.
One tip I have is to use fresh herbs whenever possible; they elevate the dish significantly. The slow cooking method not only enhances the vegetables' sweetness but also allows the broth to soak up all those wonderful flavors. In my experience, a bit of grated Parmesan on top just before serving makes it an extra-special treat!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich variety of vegetables that boost nutrition
- Aromatic herbs that create a symphony of flavors
- Perfect as a make-ahead meal for busy weekdays
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious stew!
Vegetables
- 2 cups chopped zucchini
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 2 cloves minced garlic
Liquids & Spices
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional
Add some grated Parmesan for extra flavor!
Preparation Steps
Prepare the Vegetables
Chop all the vegetables into uniform pieces and set them aside.
Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
Add the chopped vegetables, vegetable broth, olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
Set Cooking Time
Cover and set the crockpot to cook on low for 8 hours.
Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, stir well and serve hot. Enjoy with a sprinkle of Parmesan!
Make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to swap out any vegetables based on what's in season or what you have on hand. Adding lentils or beans can boost the protein content too!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze this stew?
Yes, this stew freezes well! Just let it cool before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
→ What can I serve with the stew?
This stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad.
→ How can I make it spicier?
Add some red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño if you like heat!
→ Is this stew vegan?
Yes, it is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly!
Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew
I absolutely love coming home to a warm, hearty dish that’s been cooking all day, and this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew is one of my all-time favorites. It's packed with vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs, making it a wholesome meal that my whole family enjoys. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just chop the ingredients, toss them in the crockpot, and let it do the work for you. Trust me, there's nothing like the rich flavors that develop over a long, slow cook!
What You'll Need
Vegetables
- 2 cups chopped zucchini
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 2 cloves minced garlic
Liquids & Spices
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Chop all the vegetables into uniform pieces and set them aside.
Add the chopped vegetables, vegetable broth, olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
Cover and set the crockpot to cook on low for 8 hours.
Once cooked, stir well and serve hot. Enjoy with a sprinkle of Parmesan!
Extra Tips
- Feel free to swap out any vegetables based on what's in season or what you have on hand. Adding lentils or beans can boost the protein content too!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 5g