Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 zucchini, chopped; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 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; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I’ve always loved the idea of a hearty stew that practically cooks itself, and this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew does exactly that! It’s packed with vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs, creating a dish that’s not only nourishing but also bursting with flavor. Cooking it in a slow cooker allows the ingredients to meld beautifully over time, so every bite is rich in warmth and comfort. This recipe is perfect for busy days, and I love coming home to a delicious meal that’s hot and ready to enjoy!

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-13T22:07:18.823Z

When I first tried making this stew, I was amazed at how the slow cooking method transformed simple veggies into something extraordinary. The tomatoes break down beautifully, creating a rich broth that’s perfect for soaking up with crusty bread. I found that adding a splash of balsamic vinegar right before serving enhances the flavor even more, giving it that extra zing!

One memorable evening, I had friends over for dinner and decided to serve this stew. The room filled with delicious aromas, and everyone couldn’t stop praising the savory blend of herbs and vegetables. It’s truly a comfort meal that makes any gathering feel special, and I can't wait for you to experience it!

        What You'll Love About This Stew
        Vibrant colors and flavors that brighten your day
Very low in calories but rich in nutrition
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers taste even better

      

The Power of a Slow Cooker

Using a slow cooker is key to developing the deep, rich flavors in this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew. Cooking at a low temperature allows the vegetables to soften and release their natural sweetness while infusing the broth with their essence. This melding of flavors is essential in achieving that comforting taste that warms you from the inside out. I recommend starting it early in the day; the longer it simmers, the better the flavor profile becomes.

When using the slow cooker, make sure to layer your ingredients thoughtfully. Heavier, denser vegetables like carrots and celery should go at the bottom to ensure they have enough time to cook through, while quicker-cooking veggies like zucchini can sit atop. This setup ensures all vegetables are perfectly tender without any turning mushy.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this stew plays a significant role not just in flavor but also in nutrition. For instance, the variety of vegetables not only provides a spectrum of colors but also a mix of vitamins and minerals. Bell peppers bring a sweet crunch, while mushrooms add an earthy depth. Consider using seasonal vegetables for an even more vibrant dish; for example, swapping in at least one seasonal variety like winter squash in colder months can keep things interesting and flavorful.

If you're looking to make this stew heartier, you can include protein sources like beans or lentils. They will cook perfectly in the slow cooker and absorb the flavors of the broth, adding both texture and nutritional value. Just ensure to adjust the liquid levels slightly to account for the added volume.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make the stew:

Fresh Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 zucchini, chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
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
Fresh parsley, for garnish

All set? Let’s get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your stew:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Prepare the Crockpot

Transfer the onion and garlic mixture into the crockpot. Add the carrots, celery, zucchini, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Stir to combine.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Pour the can of diced tomatoes and vegetable broth into the pot. Season with basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together.

Cook

Cover and set the crockpot to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.

Serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and, if you like, a drizzle of balsamic vinegar.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious stew!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a bay leaf during cooking or a splash of lemon juice before serving. This stew is also versatile
feel free to add any additional vegetables you have on hand.

Storage and Reheating

This stew is an excellent meal prep option; it stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days. To keep its fresh taste, store it in airtight containers once it’s cooled. If you're planning to enjoy leftovers, consider reheating them gently on the stove over medium-low heat, so it warms evenly without compromising the texture.

For longer storage, this stew freezes beautifully for up to three months. Just ensure the stew has cooled completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. When you’re ready to serve, defrost it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave, and then reheat for a comforting meal that tastes just as good as the first day.

Serving Suggestions

Garnishing your Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew can elevate the dish both visually and in flavor. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a touch of bright color and fresh notes that contrast beautifully with the hearty stew. For an added flavor dimension, a drizzle of balsamic vinegar before serving can enhance the acidity, making each bite even more delightful.

If you want to turn this stew into a more complete meal, consider serving it with a side of crusty whole-grain bread or over a bed of cooked quinoa or rice. These additions not only provide a satisfying crunch or chewy texture but also help soak up the flavorful broth, ensuring no morsel goes to waste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work great in this recipe! Just omit the step of sautéing them.

→ Can I add protein to the stew?

Absolutely! You can add cooked beans, lentils, or even shredded chicken for a heartier version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can this recipe be made in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Just toss everything in the crockpot the next day for a quick dinner!