Name: Summer Vegetable Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 yellow bell pepper, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 2 zucchinis, diced; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste

Looking for a delicious way to enjoy summer’s bounty of fresh vegetables? I love making this Summer Vegetable Stew because it captures the vibrant flavors of the season in every comforting spoonful. It’s a hearty yet light dish that’s simple enough for a weekday dinner and impressive enough for a casual gathering with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this Summer Vegetable Stew is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. It celebrates the season’s freshest produce, and every bite feels like a taste of summer. Whether I need a vegan main dish, a healthy meal prep idea, or just a colorful addition to my table, this stew never disappoints. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a nourishing choice for any day of the week.

Ingredients

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

2 tbsp olive oil

1 onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 yellow bell pepper, diced

2 carrots, sliced

1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)

2 zucchinis, diced

1 cup vegetable broth

1 tsp dried thyme

Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. I add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent.

Stir in sliced carrots and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.

Add diced zucchinis, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper. I make sure to stir well to combine everything evenly.

Pour in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. I season the mixture with dried thyme, salt, and pepper, stirring thoroughly.

Bring the stew to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully.

Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Ladle into bowls and serve hot. I sometimes garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra burst of freshness.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Serving Size: 4 servings

Variations

When I want to change things up, I love adding a can of chickpeas or white beans for extra protein. Sometimes I toss in green beans or corn for a touch of sweetness. If I’m feeling bold, a pinch of red pepper flakes gives the stew a little heat. For a heartier meal, I occasionally serve it over couscous or quinoa.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover Summer Vegetable Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the stew thickens too much, I add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up.

Related Recipes:

Crockpot Cowboy Soup

FAQs

How can I make this stew even more filling?

I like adding cooked quinoa, lentils, or chickpeas to the stew for an even heartier meal without sacrificing its light summer feel.

Can I freeze Summer Vegetable Stew?

Yes, I freeze this stew in airtight containers for up to 2 months. I let it cool completely before freezing and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What other herbs can I use instead of thyme?

Sometimes I swap thyme with fresh basil, oregano, or rosemary depending on the flavor profile I want to achieve.

Is it possible to use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely. When I have ripe summer tomatoes, I dice about 4 medium tomatoes and use them instead of canned ones for an even fresher taste.

Can I add potatoes to this stew?

Yes, diced potatoes work great here. I add them along with the carrots so they have enough time to cook through.

Conclusion

This Summer Vegetable Stew is one of my favorite ways to savor the vibrant flavors of the season. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether I’m cooking for myself or sharing with friends, this hearty, colorful dish always brings warmth and satisfaction to the table.

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