Cozy Winter Vegetable Stew

Name: Cozy Winter Vegetable Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 potatoes, cubed; 1 zucchini, chopped; 1 cup green beans, trimmed; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Bowls

Warm up your chilly evenings with this delightful Cozy Winter Vegetable Stew, brimming with seasonal vegetables and hearty flavors.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-29T18:50:28.289Z

This Cozy Winter Vegetable Stew is a heartwarming dish perfect for those cold winter nights. Packed with nutritious vegetables and fragrant herbs, it is both comforting and satisfying.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Loaded with wholesome ingredients
Perfectly seasoned for a warming flavor
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables

      

Seasonal Ingredients for Optimal Flavor

This Cozy Winter Vegetable Stew is all about celebrating seasonal produce. As the temperature drops, hearty vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and zucchini become staples in our kitchens. These ingredients not only provide warmth and sustenance but also offer robust flavors that meld beautifully during cooking. When selecting your vegetables, look for fresh, local options to maximize taste and nutrition.

Incorporating a variety of colorful vegetables not only enhances the dish visually but also ensures a range of essential vitamins and minerals. For instance, bell peppers bring a sweet crunch, while green beans add a delightful texture. The combination of these veggies creates a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and nourishing, perfect for those chilly winter nights.

Perfectly Seasoned for Comfort

The seasoning in this stew is what elevates it from a simple vegetable dish to a heartwarming meal. Dried thyme and oregano are traditional herbs that infuse the stew with aromatic depth, enhancing the natural sweetness of the vegetables. This careful balance of herbs ensures every spoonful is bursting with flavor, making it a dish your family will look forward to.

Adjusting the seasoning to your personal taste is also part of the fun. Feel free to experiment with additional spices like paprika for a smoky kick or a pinch of cayenne for a touch of heat. The flexibility in seasoning allows you to tailor the stew to your liking, ensuring a personalized comfort food experience.

Customizable and Versatile

One of the best aspects of this Cozy Winter Vegetable Stew is its versatility. This recipe serves as a fantastic base, allowing you to include your favorite vegetables based on what's in season or what you have on hand. If you prefer heartier vegetables, consider adding parsnips or squash, which can provide additional flavor and texture.

This stew is not only adaptable in terms of ingredients but also in serving styles. You can enjoy it as a standalone meal or pair it with crusty bread for dipping. Additionally, it makes for excellent leftovers, as the flavors continue to develop over time. Consider preparing a larger batch to enjoy throughout the week, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Ingredients

Vegetables

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 potatoes, cubed
1 zucchini, chopped
1 cup green beans, trimmed
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match your favorite vegetables to make this stew your own!

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

Add Remaining Vegetables

Stir in the bell pepper, garlic, potatoes, zucchini, and green beans. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Combine with Broth and Seasonings

Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 30 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the vegetables are tender, taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy your cozy stew!

This stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for later enjoyment.

Storing and Reheating Tips

After making your Cozy Winter Vegetable Stew, you might find yourself with leftovers, and that's a good thing! This stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors will meld even further, making each subsequent serving even more delicious.

When it comes to reheating, simply warm the stew on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. You can also use the microwave for convenience, but be sure to stir occasionally to ensure even heating. If the stew thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Nutritional Benefits

This Cozy Winter Vegetable Stew is not only comforting but also packed with nutrition. The variety of vegetables provides essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, supporting overall health. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is great for eye health, while potatoes offer potassium, an important mineral for heart function.

Additionally, this stew is low in calories, making it a guilt-free meal option. The combination of vegetables and broth creates a filling dish that can satisfy your hunger without excess calories. It's a fantastic choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle during the winter months, helping you stay warm and nourished.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal experience, consider serving this Cozy Winter Vegetable Stew with a side of warm, crusty bread or buttery cornbread. These sides not only complement the stew perfectly but also add an extra layer of comfort to your meal. A simple green salad can also enhance the overall dining experience, providing a fresh contrast to the hearty stew.

If you're feeling indulgent, top each bowl with a sprinkle of grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can also be a beautiful finishing touch, adding a pop of color and freshness to the dish. Whatever you choose, this stew is sure to be a hit at your winter table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew in advance?

Yes, this stew tastes even better the next day! You can make it a day ahead and reheat before serving.

→ What vegetables can I substitute?

You can use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, such as squash, kale, or mushrooms.

→ Is this stew vegan?

Yes, this Cozy Winter Vegetable Stew is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly.

→ Can I add meat to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken or sausage for a heartier version.