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 zucchini, chopped; 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 cup carrots, sliced; 1 cup green beans, trimmed; 1 small onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups spinach, packed

Highlighted under: Fresh Kitchen

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew, especially on chilly days. The combination of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs fills my kitchen with irresistible scents, making it a comforting dish for my family. Using the crockpot allows all those flavors to meld beautifully over time, creating a hearty stew that's both nutritious and delicious. This easy one-pot recipe not only saves me time but also gives me the chance to enjoy a variety of veggies without any fuss. It's the perfect meal to make ahead for busy weeknights!

Created by

Maribel Hawthorne

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:04:40.323Z

When I first tried making this stew, I was skeptical about how all the vegetables would come together. However, slow cooking truly transforms the ingredients, bringing out their natural sweetness. My favorite part is adding a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end, which adds a delightful tang and depth to the flavor.

Over the years, I’ve experimented with various vegetables, and my go-to mix includes zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots. Each pot turns out slightly different but delicious every time, making it a new experience. Plus, it’s great for meal prep!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables
Aromatic herbs that infuse the dish with flavor
Easy to prepare and perfect for busy days

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh vegetables in this stew not only boosts its flavor but also maximizes its nutritional benefits. Ingredients like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots are at their best when they are in-season, providing a vibrant palette that enhances both the taste and visual appeal of your dish. I recommend visiting a local farmers' market to choose the freshest produce for optimal results.

Hong Kong zucchini is an excellent choice for this recipe as its tender texture holds up well during the long cooking process. If you can't find fresh zucchini, frozen versions can be used, but be sure to adjust cooking times to avoid a mushy texture. Fresh ingredients truly make a difference in flavor and texture.

Perfecting Your Cooking Technique

When combining your ingredients in the crockpot, layering them in the order they were listed can significantly affect the final outcome. Start with the denser vegetables on the bottom, like carrots and green beans, as they require more cooking time. This technique ensures that every ingredient is cooked evenly without overcooking the more delicate items like spinach.

Don’t rush the cooking times; allowing the stew to simmer on low heat for 4 hours results in deeply infused flavors. If you're short on time, cooking on high for 2 hours is still effective, but keep an eye on the vegetables for doneness—look for a tender yet firm texture.

Ingredients

Fresh Ingredients

2 cups zucchini, chopped
1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 cup green beans, trimmed
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups spinach, packed

Feel free to substitute any of your favorite vegetables to make this stew your own!

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

Chop all the vegetables and set them aside. Make sure to wash them thoroughly before cutting.

Combine Ingredients

In the crockpot, combine the chopped zucchini, bell peppers, carrots, green beans, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth.

Add Herbs and Spices

Stir in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure everything is coated with the seasonings.

Cook the Stew

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

Finish and Serve

Stir in the spinach just before serving to wilt it. Adjust seasoning if necessary and enjoy hot!

This stew tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for leftovers!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding a splash of your favorite hot sauce before serving.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

This Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew is perfect for meal prep. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day. If you find you have a surplus, consider freezing portions in individual containers, which will keep for up to three months.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove over medium heat. This prevents the vegetables from becoming mushy. If reheating from frozen, allow the stew to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming it up. Add a splash of vegetable broth if needed to reach your desired consistency.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to customize the stew by adding your favorite vegetables or beans, such as chickpeas or cannellini beans, for extra protein and creaminess. If you're looking for a heartier dish, consider stirring in cooked pasta or quinoa just before serving.

For an added burst of flavor, serve the stew with a drizzle of high-quality balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top. Fresh basil or parsley can be a bright garnish that enhances the presentation and freshness of the dish, making it an inviting meal for friends and family.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, it freezes well! Just be sure to store it in an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It's great on its own, but you can also serve it with crusty bread or over rice.

→ Can I add meat to this recipe?

Absolutely! Cooked chicken or Italian sausage would complement the flavors beautifully.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.