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: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, sliced; 2 medium zucchinis, diced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew because it’s packed with vibrant vegetables and comforting flavors. It’s one of those dishes that fills the house with delicious aromas while cooking, and I can prepare it in no time by simply chopping the ingredients and letting the slow cooker work its magic. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in a variety of nutrients, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or meal prep for the week ahead.

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T23:28:09.470Z

When my family craves a hearty meal but I don’t have much time to cook, this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew has become my go-to recipe. I've experimented with different vegetables, and I found that zucchini and bell peppers really bring a burst of flavor. The best part is that I can prepare everything in the morning, set the crockpot, and come home to a warm and delicious stew.

One tip I’ve found helpful is to use fresh herbs instead of dried for the best taste. I love adding fresh basil and parsley just before serving—they really elevate the dish with their vibrant flavors. Plus, it proves to be a wonderful meal option for leftovers!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, savory flavors from fresh vegetables and spices.
Perfect for meal prep or as a quick weeknight dinner.
Nutritious and low in calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew adds a unique layer of flavor and nutrition. The onions and garlic form a delicious aromatic base, lending depth to the dish. Onions should be chopped finely enough to blend into the stew, while garlic cloves should be minced to release their essential oils and enhance the overall taste. Choosing fresh vegetables ensures that you get the best texture and nutrients, making this recipe a wholesome choice for dinner.

When selecting bell peppers, opt for vibrant colors like red, yellow, or orange, as they are sweeter and add a beautiful hue to your stew. Zucchini adds a pleasant softness that helps balance the heartier carrots, which bring their natural sweetness and a bit of crunch. If you have leftover vegetables in your fridge, feel free to toss them in; just remember to adjust the cooking time according to their size and freshness.

Perfecting Your Cooking Technique

Cooking the stew in a slow cooker allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, but timing is crucial. If you’re short on time, the high setting will yield excellent results in 3-4 hours; however, if you can plan ahead, cooking low and slow for 6-8 hours will draw out the rich flavors even more. Always check for vegetable tenderness before serving—look for vibrant, glossy veggies that have absorbed the broth's flavors. If you find they’re still firm after the cooking time, cover and let them battle in the heat for an additional 15-30 minutes.

In the last 15 minutes before serving, adding spinach not only enhances the nutritional value but also introduces a lovely fresh flavor. It’s crucial to avoid overcooking the spinach; just stir it into the hot stew until wilted, which will only take a few minutes. Alternatively, if you prefer to use frozen spinach, let it thaw and drain excess water before adding it, as it can release additional moisture during the cooking process.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious stew:

Ingredients

1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 medium zucchinis, diced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Fresh parsley for garnish

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your healthy stew:

Prepare the Vegetables

Chop all the vegetables and place them in the crockpot. Start with onions and garlic to create a flavorful base.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.

Cook in the Crockpot

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender.

Finish with Spinach

In the last 15 minutes of cooking, stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt before serving.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before enjoying.

Enjoy your healthy and hearty stew!

Pro Tips

Feel free to freeze any leftovers for a quick meal later on. You can also adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences!

Storage and Reheating

This stew makes for excellent leftovers! Once cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply transfer it to a pot and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, or use the microwave for quicker meals—just make sure to cover the bowl to prevent splatters.

For longer storage, this stew freezes beautifully. Ladle it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned earlier. You’ll be amazed at how the flavors continue to develop even after freezing!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Italian Vegetable Stew pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or a light salad. For a more filling meal, consider serving it over cooked quinoa or brown rice, which adds a nice texture and boosts the protein content. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt on top can also elevate the flavors, providing a creamy contrast to the stew's warmth.

Feel free to customize your stew according to seasonal vegetables or dietary needs. For a heartier version, add canned chickpeas or lentils for protein. Additionally, if you prefer a spicier kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce can liven things up. Just remember to balance flavors; taste as you go to ensure a well-rounded dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ Can I add meat to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken or sausage for added protein.

→ How long does this stew last in the fridge?

It keeps well for up to 4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.