Cozy Winter Vegetable Stew

Name: Cozy Winter Vegetable Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium potatoes, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Warm Meal Recipes

This Cozy Winter Vegetable Stew is the perfect dish to warm you up during the chilly months. Packed with seasonal vegetables and hearty flavors, this stew is both comforting and nutritious.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-29T15:42:28.706Z

This stew is a family favorite, bringing together the essence of winter with every spoonful. The combination of root vegetables and warming spices creates a meal that not only nourishes but also comforts.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for cold days
Loaded with vibrant vegetables for a nutritious boost
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep

      

Nutritional Benefits of Winter Vegetables

Winter vegetables are not only hearty but also packed with essential nutrients that can help boost your immune system during the colder months. Vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and green beans are high in vitamins A and C, which are known for their antioxidant properties. These nutrients help combat the effects of seasonal colds and flu, ensuring you stay healthy and strong throughout the winter.

Incorporating a variety of vegetables into your diet is crucial for maintaining a balanced intake of nutrients. This Cozy Winter Vegetable Stew features a colorful array of seasonal produce, which not only enhances the dish's visual appeal but also maximizes the health benefits. Each ingredient contributes unique vitamins and minerals, making this stew a powerhouse of nutrition.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

This Cozy Winter Vegetable Stew is an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts. You can easily make a large batch at the beginning of the week and portion it out for quick lunches or dinners. The flavors of the stew deepen and improve after a day in the fridge, making it a perfect option for leftovers. Simply store it in airtight containers, and it will last for up to five days in the refrigerator.

If you're looking to extend the life of your stew, consider freezing portions for later use. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. This makes for a convenient and comforting meal on busy days.

Serving Suggestions

This Cozy Winter Vegetable Stew is delicious on its own but can be enhanced with a few simple accompaniments. Consider serving it with a warm, crusty bread or a side of fluffy rice to make it even more filling. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, can elevate the flavors and add a touch of freshness to your bowl.

For those who enjoy a little added spice, a dollop of spicy mustard or a drizzle of hot sauce can bring an exciting kick to the stew. Pairing it with a light salad can also balance the meal, providing a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty stew. No matter how you choose to serve it, this dish is sure to please!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Feel free to add or substitute any vegetables based on your preferences or what's in season!

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

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

Add Garlic and Potatoes

Stir in the minced garlic and diced potatoes. Cook for another 3 minutes, stirring frequently.

Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add the zucchini, green beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Simmer the Stew

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your cozy winter vegetable stew!

This stew also tastes better the next day, so don’t hesitate to make a bigger batch!

Why Seasonal Eating Matters

Eating seasonally is not just a trend; it's a sustainable practice that can benefit both your health and the environment. Seasonal produce is often fresher, tastier, and more nutritious since it is harvested at its peak ripeness. By choosing winter vegetables for this stew, you support local farmers and reduce the carbon footprint associated with transporting out-of-season produce.

Additionally, seasonal eating encourages variety in your diet, which is essential for obtaining a broad spectrum of nutrients. By incorporating different vegetables into your meals throughout the year, you can enjoy a wide range of flavors and health benefits, making cooking and eating a more enjoyable experience.

Adjusting the Recipe to Your Taste

One of the beautiful aspects of this Cozy Winter Vegetable Stew is its versatility. Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your personal preferences or what you have on hand. If you love sweet potatoes, they can be a great substitute for regular potatoes, adding a touch of sweetness and extra nutrients.

You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create a flavor profile that suits your palate. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat, while a splash of balsamic vinegar just before serving can brighten the overall taste. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this stew uniquely your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew in advance?

Yes, this stew can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is this stew vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based, making it a great vegan option.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add any seasonal vegetables like squash, parsnips, or even leafy greens.

→ Can I freeze the stew?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.