Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color); 1 medium zucchini, diced; 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juice; 4 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! It’s one of those recipes that fills the kitchen with the most comforting aroma while being incredibly easy to prepare. With just a bit of chopping and tossing into the crockpot, I can set it and forget it. The mix of fresh vegetables simmered in a savory tomato broth makes for a hearty meal that’s packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s perfect for cozy evenings. Whenever I make this stew, I feel good knowing I'm enjoying something wholesome and delicious.

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2026-01-13T21:49:15.156Z

When I first experimented with this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew, I was amazed at how simple it was without sacrificing flavor. Using seasonal vegetables not only brings freshness but also enhances the nutritional value. I typically work with what I have on hand, adjusting the recipe to include things like zucchini or bell peppers depending on the time of year.

One of my favorite tips is to enhance the stew's flavor by adding a sprinkle of Italian herbs and fresh basil right before serving. This little touch truly elevates the dish, giving it an aromatic finish that's hard to resist. Each bowl is a warm reminder of my favorite Italian dinners, but without the guilt!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with colorful vegetables for a nutrient-rich meal
Slow cooking melds flavors beautifully for a rich taste
Convenient, set-it-and-forget-it method—perfect for busy days

      

Vegetable Selection and Preparation

Choosing the right vegetables is key to the success of this stew. Freshness matters; opt for bright, firm carrots and zucchini. Consider using multi-colored bell peppers not only for aesthetics but for a variety of flavors. Each vegetable brings its unique taste and texture, ensuring a balanced depth of flavor in the finished dish. To retain maximum nutrients, chop your vegetables just before cooking to minimize exposure to air and light.

When preparing the vegetables, uniformity in size is essential. Aim for bite-sized pieces—about 1-inch cubes works well. This consistency ensures that the vegetables cook evenly, softening perfectly without turning mushy. I recommend starting with the harder vegetables like carrots and celery, which take longer to soften, followed by the softer ones like zucchini and bell peppers.

Cooking Techniques and Timing

Slow cooking is the star of this recipe, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. Cooking on low for 6 to 8 hours is ideal, as the gentle heat will gently coax out flavors without overcooking the vegetables. If you're short on time, the high setting for 4 to 5 hours will still produce a delicious stew, but I find the low and slow method yields a richer, more developed flavor.

Make sure to stir occasionally during the cooking process, if possible. This not only helps ingredients to mingle but also prevents any from sticking to the sides of the crockpot. You want the broth to be bubbling gently, releasing a comforting aroma throughout your kitchen. Keep the lid on during cooking as much as possible to maintain heat and moisture.

Ingredients

Vegetable Ingredients

2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Ingredients (Optional)

Steps

Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing and chopping all the vegetables as indicated. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.

Combine in the Crockpot

Place all chopped vegetables in the crockpot. Add the canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, and all the herbs and spices.

Set to Cook

Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. Stir occasionally if possible.

Final Touches

Once cooked, adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. For an extra sprinkle of flavor, add fresh basil before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pro Tips

For a heartier meal, serve over cooked quinoa or whole-grain pasta. This stew also freezes well, making it great for meal prep on busy weeks.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew is versatile in its serving options. Serve it as a robust main dish paired with crusty whole-grain bread for a satisfying meal. If you're looking to lighten it up even further, serve it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for an added protein boost. For an attractive presentation, sprinkle some fresh, chopped basil on top just before serving—it adds a refreshing brightness both in flavor and color.

Another great serving idea is to accompany it with a side salad dressed lightly with balsamic vinaigrette. This contrast adds a nice crunch and balances the stew's warmth. Feel free to experiment with toppings; a dollop of Greek yogurt can provide a creamy texture, while shredded Parmesan cheese brings in a savory touch.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This stew stores well, making it great for meal prep. Allow it to cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, it's best to thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Remember that adding a splash of vegetable broth while reheating can restore its original creamy texture.

If you find yourself with leftovers that are too thick after refrigeration, simply stir in a bit of warm water or broth as you reheat. This will help to regain that perfect stew consistency. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning after reheating, as freezing can sometimes dull the flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I add protein to this stew?

Absolutely! Chickpeas or lentils work great for a plant-based option, or you can add cooked chicken or sausage if you prefer.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, using frozen vegetables is convenient and will still yield delicious results!

→ What can I do if the stew is too thick?

You can add more vegetable broth or water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.