Slow Cooker Recipes Vegetable Stew for Easy Healthy Meals

There’s something truly comforting about a warm, hearty vegetable stew simmered slowly to perfection. Using a slow cooker to prepare this classic dish not only brings out the best flavors of every vegetable but also makes the cooking process effortless.

Whether you’re coming home after a long day or preparing meals ahead for the week, this vegetable stew recipe is your go-to solution for nourishing, wholesome, and delicious comfort food. Packed with vibrant veggies, herbs, and a rich broth, it’s a versatile dish that caters to vegans, vegetarians, and anyone seeking a wholesome plant-based meal.

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through how to prepare an easy slow cooker vegetable stew that’s bursting with flavor and nutrients. Plus, I’ll share tips to customize it and make it your own.

Ready to cozy up with a bowl of goodness? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This slow cooker vegetable stew is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients gently cooked to meld flavors beautifully. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare — just chop, add to the slow cooker, and let time do the magic.

It’s perfect for busy days, meal prepping, or even entertaining guests. The stew is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and packed with fiber and vitamins.

Plus, it’s incredibly flexible — swap in your favorite veggies or add beans and grains for extra heartiness.

And of course, the slow cooker means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. This recipe is a fantastic entry point into slow cooker cooking if you’re new to it, and a comforting classic if you’re already a fan.

Ingredients

• 3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 large potato, peeled and diced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup chickpeas (cooked or canned, drained)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Slow cooker (4 to 6-quart size recommended)
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Bowl for rinsing and prepping vegetables

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash, peel, and chop all vegetables into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
2. Sauté aromatics: In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent. This step adds depth but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
3. Add vegetables to slow cooker: Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker. Add carrots, celery, potato, bell pepper, green beans, and chickpeas.
4. Add seasonings: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (with juice), vegetable broth, dried thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Stir gently to combine.
5. Season and cook: Add salt and pepper to taste. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender.
6. Check and adjust: About 30 minutes before serving, taste the stew and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
7. Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

“Feel free to swap or add your favorite vegetables based on the season and what you have on hand. Sweet potatoes, zucchini, mushrooms, or butternut squash work wonderfully!”

For a protein boost, add a cup of cooked lentils or beans along with the chickpeas. If you like a little heat, stir in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.

To make the stew heartier, add 1/2 cup of barley or quinoa at the start of cooking. For a creamier texture, stir in some coconut milk or a dollop of vegan sour cream just before serving.

Leftovers taste even better the next day, so consider doubling the recipe for easy meal prep. This recipe is a fantastic base that you can customize endlessly.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetable stew shines on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate your meal. Serve it with a slice of warm, crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the flavorful broth.

For a heartier meal, serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or your favorite grain. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette makes a refreshing accompaniment.

To explore more delicious plant-based recipes that pair beautifully with this stew, check out these favorites:

• A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion
• Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals
• Best Vegetarian Slow Cooker Recipes NZ For Easy Meals

Conclusion

This slow cooker vegetable stew is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings warmth and nutrition to your table with minimal effort. The beauty lies in its flexibility — you can customize the veggies, spices, and add-ons to suit your taste and pantry.

Perfect for busy weekdays or slow weekend cooking, it’s a recipe that encourages wholesome eating and cozy comfort.

Using a slow cooker means you can set it in the morning and come home to a delicious meal ready to enjoy. This stew not only feeds your body but also nourishes your soul with every spoonful.

Give this recipe a try and let it become a staple in your kitchen rotation. For more creative and delicious plant-based recipes, explore the links above and keep your culinary journey vibrant and exciting!

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