Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 large onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 stalks celery, chopped; 2 zucchini, sliced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew. It’s perfect for those busy days when I don't have much time to cook but want to enjoy a filling and nutritious meal. With a medley of fresh vegetables and Italian seasoning, this dish packs a punch in flavor while being incredibly healthy. The best part is that I can simply toss everything into my crockpot in the morning, set it, and forget it. By dinner time, I have a hearty stew that warms the soul and satisfies my appetite.

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2026-01-13T20:25:12.739Z

When I first made this stew, I was amazed at how simple and satisfying it was. Using a variety of in-season vegetables, I created a vibrant dish that not only looked good but tasted fantastic. I remember adding a hint of balsamic vinegar for an extra layer of flavor, and it transformed the stew into something amazing. It was a hit with my family, and I felt good serving them such a wholesome meal!

Once I discovered how easy it was to make in the crockpot, I never looked back. The long, slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring that every bite is packed with taste. I recommend trying different vegetables based on what’s available, like zucchini or bell peppers, for even more variety. This stew is truly a canvas for creativity!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A comforting blend of vegetables and spices that warms you up
Minimal prep time leads to maximum flavor with zero fuss
Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd

      

The Backbone of Flavor

Each ingredient in this Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew plays a pivotal role in building layers of flavor. The base of chopped onion, carrots, and celery, known as mirepoix, provides a fragrant foundation. Sautéing these before adding to the crockpot can enhance their sweetness and reduce cooking time, though it's not necessary if you're seeking minimal prep. The bell pepper adds a slight sweetness, while the zucchini contributes both texture and moisture, helping the stew stay hearty without being too heavy.

Another key player is the Italian seasoning mix, which imparts that unmistakable herbal aroma. Look for a blend containing oregano, basil, and thyme for the most authentic Italian vibe, but feel free to adjust according to your preferences. Should you want a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile without overwhelming the dish. Just remember; balance is key to achieving that comforting, home-cooked feel.

Optimal Cooking Techniques

When using a crockpot, the cooking temperature can significantly affect the final texture of your stew. Cooking on low for four hours allows the vegetables to soften gently while letting the flavors meld beautifully. However, if you're in a rush, the high setting for two hours will also yield a stew that's delicious, albeit with vegetables that retain slightly more crunch. Stirring occasionally, if possible, encourages even cooking and helps prevent the ingredients from sticking to the sides.

Always keep a close eye on the liquid level in your crockpot. If you notice it getting too thick during cooking, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to maintain the desired stew consistency. Conversely, if your stew ends up too soupy, blending a portion of it and reincorporating can create a thicker texture without sacrificing flavor. These small adjustments can make all the difference in achieving the perfect stew.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful stew:

Ingredients

1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 stalks celery, chopped
2 zucchini, sliced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on your preferences!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious homemade stew:

Prepare the Vegetables

Chop all the vegetables as indicated in the ingredients list, and place them into the crockpot.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Pour in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cannellini beans, Italian seasoning, and balsamic vinegar. Stir well to combine.

Set the Crockpot

Cover the crockpot and set it on low for 4 hours, or high for 2 hours. Stir occasionally if you can.

Finish and Serve

Once cooked, season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy your hearty stew!

This stew is delicious on its own or served with crusty bread.

Pro Tips

For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.

Storage and Leftover Tips

This stew is an excellent candidate for meal prep, as it stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to five days. Make sure to allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. To freeze, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, and it can last for up to three months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results, then gently heat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

If you find yourself with leftover stew, consider repurposing it into a sauce for pasta. Just simmer it down until thickened and toss it with your choice of cooked pasta for an easy weeknight dinner. Alternatively, it can be ladled over roasted chicken or served as a filling for a savory pot pie.

Variations for Personal Touch

Feel free to customize this stew based on seasonal vegetables or what you have on hand. Root vegetables like sweet potatoes or parsnips can add sweetness and substance, while leafy greens such as spinach or kale can be stirred in during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a nutrient boost. For added protein, you can also throw in diced tofu or switch out the cannellini beans for chickpeas.

If you want to make this dish even heartier, consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or alongside crusty whole-grain bread. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast just before serving can elevate the flavors pleasantly, giving it that authentic Italian flair.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well! Just add them directly to the crockpot.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Can I make this stew vegan?

Absolutely! Just ensure the vegetable broth is vegan-friendly.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice or pasta.