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: 2 carrots, diced; 2 stalks of celery, diced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 cup green beans, trimmed; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew on busy days when I want a nutritious meal without much hassle. Just toss everything in the crockpot, and by the time I'm done with my day, a warm and hearty stew awaits. This recipe is perfect for getting your daily dose of vegetables while also being incredibly flavorful. Plus, it makes great leftovers for lunch the next day, which is always a bonus for our household.

Created by

Mia Jefferson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T21:37:21.450Z

During one particularly hectic week, I decided to experiment with my trusty crockpot. I wanted to create a healthy dish that packed a punch with vibrant vegetables and Italian flavors. After a few tries, I settled on this stew, which combines a medley of fresh veggies with aromatic herbs and spices. The slow cooking method really enhances the flavors, allowing them to meld beautifully.

One of the best tips I learned while developing this recipe is to sauté garlic and onions briefly before adding them to the crockpot. This small step releases their essential oils and elevates the overall flavor of the dish. You’ll be amazed at how this simple technique transforms a straightforward stew into something truly special!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with seasonal vegetables for optimal nutrition
Rich Italian flavors that brighten up your meal
Set it and forget it: perfect for busy schedules

      

Enhancing Flavor with Herbs

The combination of dried oregano and basil is essential in this stew, as they bring a vibrant Italian flavor profile that elevates the vegetables. Dried herbs are particularly effective in slow-cooked dishes because they release their oils over time, infusing the stew with rich essence. For a fresh twist, you could swap in fresh basil, but add it in the final cooking stages to maintain its bright flavor.

Garlic powder is another key player in this recipe. It provides a mellow, aromatic depth that complements the earthy notes of the vegetables. If you're a garlic lover, consider adding minced fresh garlic to amplify this flavor further, but remember to sauté it lightly to avoid bitterness before adding it to the crockpot.

Perfecting Texture and Warmth

Cooking times can vary based on your crockpot model, so it's important to check the doneness of your vegetables after the suggested cooking times. They should be fork-tender but not mushy. If you like a thicker stew, consider removing the lid for the last 30 minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate, enhancing the stew's richness.

To balance the dish, I recommend adjusting the salt and pepper in the last hour of cooking. Tasting at this stage allows you to recognize how the flavors develop over the cooking period and adjust seasoning as needed. A touch of acidity from a squeeze of lemon juice before serving can brighten the overall flavor.

Ingredients

Vegetables

2 carrots, diced
2 stalks of celery, diced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 zucchini, sliced
1 cup green beans, trimmed
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth

Herbs and Seasonings

1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Additions

1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
Fresh parsley for garnish

Mix and match the vegetables based on what's in season or what you have in your pantry for a personalized touch!

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

Chop all vegetables as indicated above. If using optional additions like chickpeas, have them ready as well.

Sauté Aromatics

In a skillet, sauté garlic and onions over medium heat until fragrant, then transfer to the crockpot.

Combine Ingredients

Add all remaining vegetables and seasonings into the crockpot. Pour the vegetable broth over the top.

Cook the Stew

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours until all vegetables are tender.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy warm, and store any leftovers in the refrigerator!

This stew can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and tastes even better the next day!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences. Adding a splash of lemon juice before serving can brighten the flavors.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew stores wonderfully, making it an ideal meal prep option. After the stew has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags. Lay the bags flat to save space and defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

When you're ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. Be mindful not to overheat, as this can cause the vegetables to lose their texture. Adding a splash of broth during reheating helps restore moisture.

Serving Suggestions

Serving the stew with crusty bread makes a comforting meal. The bread is perfect for soaking up the rich flavors of the stew and adds an appealing texture contrast. For a heartier dish, you could spoon it over cooked rice or quinoa, utilizing the stew as a sauce that brings everything together.

For added nutrition, consider garnishing with a handful of fresh arugula or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving. This not only builds flavor but also adds a nice pop of color. For a plant-based option, nutritional yeast can be a fantastic substitute, providing a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I add meat to this stew?

Yes! You can add cooked chicken or sausage for added protein, but remember that it may change the cooking time.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients listed are gluten-free, making this stew suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Yes! This stew freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a side salad, or over cooked quinoa or rice.