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 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 1 zucchini, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 4 cups vegetable broth

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

When it comes to cozy meals, I love using my crockpot to whip up wholesome dishes. This Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew is one of my favorites. I truly appreciate how the slow cooking process blends the flavors of fresh vegetables and herbs, creating a rich and savory experience. Plus, it's incredibly easy to throw everything in the pot and let it do all the work while I go about my day. I can't wait for you to try this wonderfully hearty meal that's as nutritious as it is delicious!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-13T22:31:09.922Z

Every time I make this stew, it reminds me of family dinners around the table. I experimented with various vegetables and herbs to find the perfect combination for a robust flavor without being overpowering. One tip I discovered is to add a splash of balsamic vinegar towards the end of cooking, elevating the taste and bringing everything together beautifully.

This recipe is also incredibly flexible! I enjoy using seasonal vegetables so that I can truly capture the freshness of each season. It also makes for great leftovers, enhancing the taste even further. I can give my family a healthy meal without any fuss!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Packed with fresh vegetables for a nutritious boost
Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup in a crockpot
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers that taste even better the next day

      

The Role of Vegetables in Stew

The variety of vegetables in this stew not only enhances the flavor but also provides a range of nutrients. Carrots and celery add a natural sweetness and crunch, while zucchini and bell pepper infuse the dish with their subtle earthiness. Using fresh spinach at the end of cooking not only brightens the dish with vibrant color but also retains its nutrients since it wilts quickly. This balance of textures and flavors is what makes the stew comforting and satisfying.

If you find yourself with extra vegetables, feel free to mix and match. For example, yellow squash or green beans can easily replace zucchini, and parsnips can add a different sweetness to the stew. However, keep the cooking time in mind; denser vegetables will require longer to soften, so adjust your chopping size accordingly.

Herbs and Seasonings Matter

The herbs in this recipe, particularly the oregano and basil, are essential for achieving that classic Italian flavor profile. Dried herbs are a great way to bring depth to the stew since they release their oils into the broth as they cook. While fresh herbs can be substituted, they are best added at the end to preserve their bright flavor. If you want a little more spice, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

Be mindful of salt since the vegetable broth and canned tomatoes already contain some. It's best to taste the stew about halfway through the cooking process to adjust seasoning as needed. This careful approach will ensure each bowl bursts with flavor without overwhelming the palate.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful meal:

Vegetables

2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 onion, chopped
1 zucchini, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cups fresh spinach
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained

Herbs and Seasonings

2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Liquid

4 cups vegetable broth

Combine these ingredients to create your delicious stew!

Instructions

Here’s how to make your Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew:

Prep the Ingredients

Wash and chop all the vegetables as listed. Make sure to dice the carrots and celery into small pieces for even cooking.

Combine in Crockpot

Add all the chopped vegetables, beans, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and diced tomatoes to your crockpot.

Add Vegetable Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring that everything is submerged.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the vegetables are tender.

Finish with Spinach and Balsamic Vinegar

In the last 10 minutes of cooking, stir in the fresh spinach and balsamic vinegar.

Enjoy your warming and nutritious stew!

Pro Tips

For a heartier stew, feel free to add some diced potatoes or sweet potatoes. You can also switch up the beans or use lentils for variety.

Storage and Freezing Tips

This Healthy Crockpot Italian Vegetable Stew is fantastic for meal prep! After cooking, it stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers to preserve freshness. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore its texture.

If you’re looking to freeze portions for later, divide the stew into serving-sized containers and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it on low heat to prevent it from becoming too thick or losing its rich flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty stew stands alone as a nutritious dish, but pairing it with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad elevates the meal. Consider serving it topped with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Alternatively, a drizzle of olive oil right before serving can enhance the richness.

For a comforting twist, serve the stew over a bed of cooked pasta or quinoa. This not only makes the meal more filling but also adds different textures, creating an even more satisfying experience. Don't forget to add fresh herbs as a garnish; they not only add color but enhance the dish's fresh herb notes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but avoid using them for the last 10 minutes to ensure they don’t become mushy.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

This recipe is already vegan as it contains no animal products. You’re good to go!

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs excellently with crusty bread or over a bowl of quinoa or brown rice for a more filling meal.