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 cups chopped zucchini; 1 cup diced bell peppers; 1 cup sliced carrots; 1 cup chopped potatoes; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Table Creations

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew because it’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights. The combination of vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs creates a comforting meal that practically cooks itself. Just toss everything into the slow cooker, and a few hours later, I have a hearty stew bursting with flavor. Plus, it's incredibly nutritious and makes for great leftovers, so I can enjoy it again the next day. This recipe is not only simple but also a delicious way to meet my veggie quota for the week!

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2026-01-13T23:31:09.167Z

When I first tried making this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew, I was amazed at how easy it was to prepare. I gathered all my favorite seasonal vegetables, like zucchini and bell peppers, and let the slow cooker work its magic. What surprised me most was the depth of flavor that developed from just a simple blend of herbs and a little vegetable broth.

One of my favorite tips is to add a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end of cooking; it brightens up the entire dish and adds a wonderful tang. Plus, the slower you cook it, the better the flavors meld together. Trust me, your home will smell irresistible!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables
Comforting and warm, perfect for chilly evenings
Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew lies in its colorful array of vegetables. Each vegetable contributes a unique flavor and texture, making the final dish both nourishing and satisfying. Zucchini adds a tender crunch, while carrots bring natural sweetness. Bell peppers brighten up the stew with their vibrant color, and the potatoes offer a hearty element, making the dish more filling. Choosing fresh, in-season vegetables can enhance the overall flavor profile and nutrition of your stew.

Using high-quality canned tomatoes is essential because they add depth to the stew’s base. Opt for whole peeled or diced tomatoes in juice for a richer taste. Additionally, the vegetable broth acts as a flavor enhancer. You can use homemade broth for a fresher taste or low-sodium options if you're monitoring your salt intake. Don't hesitate to substitute with chicken broth if you're not adhering to vegetarian dietary choices.

Slow Cooking Tips

When it comes to slow cooking, even slicing your vegetables uniformly—or about 1-inch pieces—ensures they cook evenly. If you prefer a stew with a thicker consistency, consider mashing some of the potatoes during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This natural starch will help to thicken the soup without any need for flour or cornstarch. If you're running short on cook time, cooking on high for about 2 hours can still yield delicious results without sacrificing flavor.

Another tip I recommend is avoiding the temptation to lift the lid of the crockpot frequently. Each time you do, you release heat, which can extend cooking time. Instead, check for doneness within the last 30 minutes cooking window, especially if you have larger chunks. When the vegetables are tender and fork-tender but not mushy, it's time for seasoning and serving.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious and healthy stew.

Ingredients

2 cups chopped zucchini
1 cup diced bell peppers
1 cup sliced carrots
1 cup chopped potatoes
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
4 cups vegetable broth
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

These fresh ingredients will combine to create a flavorful and healthy meal.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew.

Prepare the Vegetables

Chop all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Make sure to slice the zucchini and carrots evenly for best cooking results.

Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Add all the chopped vegetables, diced tomatoes (with juice), vegetable broth, onion, garlic, and dried herbs to your crockpot.

Set the Crockpot

Stir the mixture to combine. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the vegetables are tender.

Finalize the Stew

Once cooked, season with salt and pepper to taste. For a bright finish, add a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving.

This stew is best served hot and pairs wonderfully with crusty bread.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the stew or garnishing each bowl with freshly chopped parsley.

Storing and Reheating

Once you’ve enjoyed your Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew, transferring leftovers into airtight containers can help keep it fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to enjoy it even longer, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags. Lay the bags flat to optimize storage space, and mark the date for easy identification. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, or simply warm it directly from frozen in a pot over low heat while stirring occasionally.

When reheating, if you find the stew has thickened too much, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore its desired consistency. This not only revives the stew but also maintains its rich flavors. Reheating in a pot allows for more even heating compared to the microwave, which can make the vegetables mushy. If microwaving, use a medium setting and check every 1–2 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful presentation, serve this stew with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like chopped basil or parsley, right before serving. Pair it with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious broth. This meal also works wonderfully as a filling addition to a grain bowl, topped with quinoa or brown rice for added protein and texture.

If you're looking to elevate flavors further, a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can bring an extra layer of richness to the dish. For a burst of acidity, consider serving it alongside a simple salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette to complement the stew's rustic flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. Just add them directly to the slow cooker without thawing.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

→ Can I add protein to this stew?

Absolutely! You can add canned beans or cooked chicken for an extra protein boost.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no gluten ingredients.