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: 1 medium zucchini, diced; 2 cups bell peppers, chopped; 1 large onion, diced; 2 cups carrots, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chopped tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 cup green beans, trimmed; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew on busy days. The best part about this dish is that I can toss all the ingredients into the crockpot in the morning and come home to a delicious meal ready to enjoy. This hearty and flavorful stew is packed with fresh vegetables and fragrant Italian herbs, making it a nutritious and satisfying option for dinner. Plus, it's so simple to make that even novice cooks can master it!

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-13T23:22:10.454Z

While experimenting with different vegetables in my crockpot, I stumbled upon this delightful mix that's brimming with flavors. The combination of zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes creates a rich base that I love, along with the addition of beans for protein. Cooking it slowly allows the flavors to develop fully, making it incredibly comforting.

What I’ve found works best is to use fresh herbs like basil and oregano, which truly elevate the stew. I usually sprinkle them in a few minutes before serving to keep that vibrant taste intact. It’s my go-to meal prep dish, especially for a busy workweek!

        Why You'll Love This Stew
        Packed with nutrient-rich vegetables and legumes
Slow cooking enhances deep flavors and aromas
Ideal for meal prep and leftovers taste amazing

      

The Role of Fresh Vegetables

Each vegetable in this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew plays a key role in both texture and flavor. The zucchini adds a subtle sweetness and a soft texture, while the bell peppers contribute a vibrant crunch and a hint of earthiness. Carrots bring a mild sweetness and a beautiful orange hue, while green beans add a touch of freshness and snap. Choosing fresh, in-season produce will enhance the stew's overall flavor, so consider visiting your local farmer's market if possible.

Another important factor is the type of tomatoes you use. Fresh, ripe tomatoes will provide a bright, tangy flavor, while canned tomatoes can offer convenience and a richer taste due to their concentrated essence. If using canned tomatoes, opt for those in their juice rather than sauce for the best flavor infusion. Don't forget to skin fresh tomatoes for a smoother texture; simply blanch them for a few minutes in boiling water.

Slow Cooking Techniques

The slow cooking process is essential for developing rich flavors in this stew. Cooking on low for about 6 hours allows the vegetables to break down slowly, releasing their natural sugars and juices. If you're short on time, you can set your crockpot to high and reduce the cooking time to about 3-4 hours, but be mindful that the flavors may not deepen as much. You'll know the stew is done when the vegetables are fork-tender and the broth has thickened slightly.

For a robust flavor, consider sautéing the garlic and onions in a pan with a bit of olive oil before adding them to the crockpot. This step brings out their sweetness and aroma, elevating the entire dish. If you prefer a slightly spicier stew, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added to the crockpot for a delightful kick without overwhelming the dish.

Ingredients

Vegetable Ingredients

1 medium zucchini, diced
2 cups bell peppers, chopped
1 large onion, diced
2 cups carrots, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chopped tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 cup green beans, trimmed
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing and prepping all the vegetables. Dice the zucchini, chop the bell peppers, slice the carrots, and mince the garlic. Set aside.

Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

In your crockpot, combine the diced zucchini, bell peppers, onion, carrots, garlic, tomatoes, green beans, and chickpeas. Pour in the vegetable broth, and sprinkle in the oregano and basil. Season with salt and pepper.

Cook the Stew

Cover the crockpot and set it to low. Allow the stew to cook for about 6 hours, or until the vegetables are tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, give the stew a good stir and taste for salt adjustment. Ladle into bowls and enjoy warm!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking. You can also customize the vegetables based on what you have available or what's in season.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This stew keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. To store, allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth to loosen the consistency, particularly if it has thickened while sitting. Reheat on low in the crockpot or on the stove until steaming hot, which may take about 10–15 minutes.

For longer storage, you can freeze this vegetable stew for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s cooled and stored in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as described above. The flavors meld beautifully after freezing, often resulting in an even tastier stew.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the meal, serve this stew with a side of crusty whole-grain bread for dipping or a simple green salad topped with a light vinaigrette. Alternatively, you can serve it over a scoop of cooked quinoa or brown rice for added protein and fiber, making it even more filling. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving can provide an appetizing finishing touch.

If you’re looking to vary the flavor profile, consider adding a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar to the crockpot. These additions can increase the complexity of the flavor, giving your stew a slightly tangy richness. Also, feel free to experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a unique twist tailored to your taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I add meat to this stew?

Absolutely! If you prefer a heartier meal, you can add cooked chicken or sausage when mixing the ingredients in the crockpot.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, this stew freezes well! Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge before reheating.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a green salad, or over a bed of cooked quinoa for added protein.