Description
This vibrant Summer Vegetable Stew is a hearty and healthy dish packed with fresh zucchini, bell peppers, carrots, onions, and fragrant herbs. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal, it’s simmered slowly to meld the flavors, creating a comforting vegetable stew ideal for warm-weather dining or a wholesome dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 cups zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup bell peppers (red and yellow), chopped
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Seasoning
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables: Wash all vegetables thoroughly. Chop zucchini, bell peppers, carrots, and dice the onion into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until translucent and fragrant, approximately 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Add the chopped zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften but still retain some texture.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes including their juices, then pour in the vegetable broth until the vegetables are submerged to create the stew base.
- Season and Simmer: Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and any additional spices if desired. Bring the stew to a gentle simmer over low heat.
- Cook the Stew: Allow the stew to simmer gently for 20 to 30 minutes to blend all the flavors beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Finish and Serve: Before serving, stir in the fresh chopped basil for a burst of herby flavor. Serve hot and enjoy a nutritious vegetable stew.
Notes
- You can add other summer vegetables like yellow squash or green beans for variety.
- Adjust the seasoning with herbs such as thyme or oregano for different flavor profiles.
- Serve with crusty bread or over cooked rice for a more filling meal.
- For a richer stew, a splash of cream or coconut milk can be added near the end of cooking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
