Name: Italian Vegetable Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium zucchini, chopped; 1 medium eggplant, chopped; 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped; 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 bay leaf; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stew brings together the essence of Italian home cooking in one pot. It’s not only nourishing and flavorful but also incredibly flexible — perfect for using up whatever vegetables you have on hand. The dish is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for various diets. Whether served on its own, over rice, with crusty bread, or even pasta, it’s satisfying, budget-friendly, and great for meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

zucchini
eggplant
bell peppers
carrots
celery
onion
garlic
canned diced tomatoes
tomato paste
olive oil
vegetable broth
bay leaf
thyme
oregano
salt
black pepper
fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until slightly softened.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add chopped zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the tomato paste, then add the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth.
Add bay leaf, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the stew simmer uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Add beans: Stir in canned cannellini beans or chickpeas for added protein and heartiness.
Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper for a spicy kick.
Include leafy greens: Add spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Make it meaty: Add cooked Italian sausage or shredded chicken for a non-vegetarian twist.
Serve differently: Try it over rice, polenta, or with crusty Italian bread.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
To freeze, let the stew cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, though fresh produce will give the best texture and flavor.

Is this stew vegan?

Yes, it’s naturally vegan and can be made with vegan broth to keep it entirely plant-based.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

What’s the best way to cut the vegetables?

Cut them into similar-sized chunks for even cooking and a uniform texture.

Can I add pasta to the stew?

Yes, but cook it separately and stir it in just before serving to avoid sogginess.

How do I thicken the stew?

Simmer it uncovered to reduce the liquid, or mash a few vegetables into the broth for a thicker consistency.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, peeled and chopped fresh tomatoes can replace canned, though the flavor may be lighter.

What herbs go well with this stew?

Thyme, oregano, basil, and parsley are all classic choices that enhance the Mediterranean flavor.

Can I meal prep this stew?

Absolutely. It tastes even better the next day and stores well, making it perfect for meal prep.

What’s the difference between a stew and a soup?

A stew is typically thicker, with less liquid, and features larger pieces of vegetables compared to a soup.

Conclusion

Italian Vegetable Stew is a soul-warming, versatile dish that brings the flavors of Italy to your kitchen with minimal effort. Full of vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs, it’s a wholesome meal you’ll turn to again and again. Perfect for family dinners, weekly meal prep, or a cozy night in, this stew satisfies with every spoonful.