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 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 stalks celery, chopped; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup green beans, trimmed; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew because it turns simple ingredients into a robust, flavorful meal. With just a few fresh vegetables and herbs, I can create a comforting dish that fills my home with enticing aromas. You can prepare it in the morning and come home to a warm, savory stew that’s not only delicious but also healthy. The best part? It’s versatile, so I often swap in whatever’s in season or on hand, keeping it exciting every time I make it.

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-13T18:13:16.021Z

When I first experimented with making a vegetable stew in my crockpot, I quickly realized the importance of layering flavors. Using fresh herbs like basil and oregano right at the beginning really helps the ingredients meld together. It was eye-opening to see how slow cooking enhances their natural sweetness and creates a wholesome dish.

Additionally, I love that this stew is a blank canvas. On a whim, I’ve added different veggies or beans based on what I had in my fridge, and each variation was delightful. I’ve learned that a touch of Italian seasoning takes it to a whole new level, making it a family favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious ingredients packed with vitamins and minerals
Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

      

Ingredient Insights

The vegetables in this stew not only add flavor but also contribute a variety of nutrients. For instance, carrots provide beta-carotene, while zucchini adds hydration with its high water content. Feel free to experiment with seasonal produce; swapping in sweet potatoes or butternut squash can add a lovely sweetness to the dish. Just remember to adjust cooking times slightly—squash may need an extra hour, depending on how tender you like it.

The diced tomatoes are essential for creating a rich base, imparting both acidity and sweetness. If you prefer a thicker stew, you might blend half of the tomatoes before adding them, which could create a creamier texture. On the other hand, if you're looking for a fresher taste, substituting fresh tomatoes will give a bright, vibrant flavor. Aim for about 4 cups of fresh tomatoes to replace a standard 15-ounce can.

Cooking Techniques

When layering the ingredients in the crockpot, it’s important to start with the hearty vegetables, like onions and carrots, at the bottom. These will take longer to soften and will absorb flavors from the other ingredients as they cook. This strategic layering technique ensures even cooking and prevents any of the more delicate vegetables, such as zucchini, from becoming mushy.

If you find that your stew is too watery upon finishing, you can easily thicken it by uncovering the crockpot for the last 30 minutes of cooking. This allows the excess liquid to evaporate, giving you that satisfying stew consistency. Alternatively, stirring in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water) 15 minutes before the end can quickly thicken the stew.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you start cooking:

Vegetables and Herbs

1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, sliced
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 zucchini, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup green beans, trimmed
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to use fresh vegetables for the best flavor

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your stew:

Prep the Vegetables

Start by washing and chopping all your vegetables as indicated in the ingredients list. This will save you time when you start cooking.

Combine Everything in the Crockpot

In your crockpot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, chopped celery, diced zucchini, bell pepper, green beans, canned tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Sprinkle in the dried basil and oregano, then season with salt and pepper.

Set the Cooker

Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 4 hours. This allows all the flavors to develop beautifully.

Serve and Enjoy

After 4 hours, check the seasoning and adjust if necessary before serving. Enjoy your hearty stew warm!

Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients. The longer you let it cook, the more the flavors will combine!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew is fantastic for meal prep! After cooking, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a perfect option for lunch or dinner throughout the week. If you’d like to freeze it, portion the stew into freezer-safe bags or containers and store for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space in the container for expansion.

When reheating, I recommend using a stovetop or microwave. If using a stovetop, heat over medium-low, stirring periodically, until warmed through. If frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge for easier reheating. To maintain the best flavor and texture, avoid reheating more than once.

Serving Suggestions

This stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread, perfect for dipping, or a side salad to complement the hearty vegetables. If you want to elevate the dish even further, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for a vegan option right before serving. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can also add a rich, tangy flavor that rounds out the meal beautifully.

For those who enjoy a little kick, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning on top before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives a vibrant touch to the dish's presentation. If you’re looking to transform it into a full meal, serve it over cooked quinoa or brown rice for added protein and heartiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the stew?

Absolutely! This stew freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for vegetable broth?

You can use water with a bit of salt and herbs or chicken broth if you’re not strictly vegetarian.

→ How can I thicken the stew?

If you prefer a thicker stew, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

→ Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure that all your additional ingredients are gluten-free, this stew is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.