Italian Vegetable Stew Recipe
Italian vegetable stew is a wholesome and comforting dish that highlights the vibrant flavours of fresh produce simmered together in a rich, aromatic broth. This rustic recipe brings the heart of Italian cooking to your table, celebrating simple ingredients that come together in harmony. With its hearty texture and layers of flavour, it is both nourishing and satisfying, making it perfect for family meals or cozy evenings.
This stew is not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy it as a light main dish or serve it as a side alongside crusty bread, pasta, or grains. Packed with vegetables, herbs, and seasonings, it is a healthy and flavourful option for anyone who wants a balanced meal without compromising on taste. Whether you are following a vegetarian lifestyle or simply looking to add more vegetables to your diet, this Italian classic is an excellent choice.
Why You Need This Recipe
You need this recipe because it transforms everyday vegetables into a flavourful and satisfying dish that feels comforting yet light. It is a budget-friendly option, using simple pantry staples and seasonal produce, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
This stew is also adaptable, meaning you can customize it with whatever vegetables you have on hand or add beans for extra protein. It stores well, tastes even better the next day, and makes a healthy, crowd-pleasing dish that works for family dinners, gatherings, or even as part of a festive meal spread.
Ingredients
Here is a breakdown of the ingredients you need to prepare this flavorful Italian vegetable stew, along with their approximate calorie counts.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp | 360 |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 large | 60 |
| Carrots (sliced) | 2 medium | 50 |
| Celery (chopped) | 2 stalks | 20 |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | 15 |
| Zucchini (chopped) | 2 medium | 66 |
| Red bell pepper | 1 large | 45 |
| Potatoes (cubed) | 2 medium | 320 |
| Tomatoes (diced) | 2 cups | 60 |
| Vegetable broth | 5 cups | 100 |
| Italian seasoning | 2 tsp | 6 |
| Fresh basil | ¼ cup | 5 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | 0 |
Calories are approximate and based on the full batch before serving portions.
How to Prepare
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery, then saute until they begin to soften and release their aroma. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. Next, add the zucchini, bell pepper, and potatoes, mixing well to coat them in the flavours.
Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes, followed by Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring the stew to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the broth is rich and flavourful. Before serving, stir in fresh basil for a burst of fragrance and freshness.
Pro Tips
To make your stew extra flavourful, allow it to simmer slowly so the vegetables fully absorb the seasonings. If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash a few of the cooked potatoes into the broth to naturally thicken it. Using fresh herbs at the end of cooking enhances the aroma and gives the stew an authentic Italian touch. For added nutrition, you can mix in cooked beans or lentils, and if you like a touch of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes will balance the flavours beautifully.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
This Italian vegetable stew pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread that can be used to soak up the savoury broth. It also complements a side of rice, quinoa, or couscous for a heartier meal. For toppings, add freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to enrich the flavour. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil just before serving enhances both the look and the taste of the dish, making it even more inviting.
Conclusion
Italian vegetable stew is a comforting, flavourful, and healthy recipe that makes the most of fresh produce and simple pantry ingredients. It is easy to prepare, versatile enough to adapt to your favourite vegetables, and perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions. With its hearty texture and aromatic broth, this dish is one that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table, celebrating the essence of Italian home cooking
