Easy Baked Vegetable Stew
Picture this: a chilly evening, you walk into your cozy kitchen, and the warm aroma of garlic and fresh herbs wafts through the air. You can almost taste the hearty blend of tender vegetables simmering softly in a comforting broth. This is the magic of my Easy Baked Vegetable Stew. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, reminding us of family gatherings and shared laughter over dinner. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish promises to bring warmth to your table—and maybe a few nostalgic tears to your eyes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore this Easy Baked Vegetable Stew. Here are a few that often make it a favorite at our family table:
- Quick and Simple: Ready in about an hour, this stew is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with seasonal vegetables, it’s a nourishing and guilt-free option the whole family will enjoy.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables, making it a dish you can make truly your own.
- Brings People Together: There’s something special about sharing a warm stew; it sparks conversations and creates memories.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: This dish is festive enough for special gatherings, yet simple enough for a regular family meal.
Ingredients with Notes
To create this delightful Easy Baked Vegetable Stew, gather the following ingredients. Each contributes to that deep, rich flavor that warms both body and soul:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A healthy fat that enhances the flavors of the vegetables.
- 1 onion, diced: Sweetens as it cooks, becoming the base of your stew’s flavor.
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced: For depth and incredible aroma—don’t skip this!
- 3 medium carrots, sliced: Adds natural sweetness and color.
- 2 stalks celery, diced: A nice crunch that pairs well with the other veggies.
- 1 zucchini, chopped: A tender veggie that cooks quickly and absorbs flavor beautifully.
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced: Adds sweetness and vibrancy.
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed: For protein and earthiness.
- 4 cups vegetable broth: The soul of the stew; opt for low-sodium for better control over saltiness.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A comforting herbal note.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy warmth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: A lovely touch that brightens the dish.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 45 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
In just an hour, you can create this wholesome dish that fills your home with incredible scents and flavors, making every moment worth it.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for roasting.
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and stir for an additional minute.
- Add the hearty vegetables: Toss in the carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Introduce the rest: Stir in the chopped zucchini and rinsed chickpeas. Join them with the dried oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
- Pour in the broth: Add the vegetable broth to the pot, bringing everything to a gentle simmer. You’ll notice the flavors starting to meld.
- Bake it up: Cover the pot with a lid and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 30 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become perfectly tender.
- Finishing touches: After 30 minutes, check for seasoning. If needed, adjust with extra salt and pepper. Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley on top to brighten it up.
Tips and Variations
- Healthier Swaps: Substitute olive oil with avocado oil for a slightly different flavor and healthy fats.
- Seasonal Twist: Use squash or pumpkin in fall or add fresh spinach or kale for extra greens.
- Flavor Upgrade: Experiment with spices like cumin or paprika for a smoky taste.
Serving Ideas
Serve your Easy Baked Vegetable Stew with crusty bread or fluffy couscous to soak up that delectable broth. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top can add a creamy contrast, while a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water gently elevates the meal. It’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, laid-back gatherings with friends, or festive holiday celebrations when you want a dish that everyone can enjoy.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months—just let them thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Chef’s Pro Tips
- Make Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld, so feel free to make it in advance.
- Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme or oregano on hand, use them! Fresh herbs at the end add a pop of bright flavor.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t be shy with the parsley; it adds a nice visual touch and elevates the flavors.
FAQs
- Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned? Absolutely! Fresh vegetables can add more flavor, just chop them into similar sizes.
- Is this meal gluten-free? Yes, this Easy Baked Vegetable Stew is naturally gluten-free.
- How can I adjust the level of spice? To spice things up, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the base.
Conclusion
I encourage you to embrace the comforting embrace of this Easy Baked Vegetable Stew. Share it with loved ones, relish the heartwarming flavors, and bask in the joyful moments that cooking and sharing meals can create. This dish isn’t just about the food; it’s about nurturing connections, sparking joy, and building delightful memories around the family table. Dig in and enjoy the happiness it brings!
Contents
Easy Baked Vegetable Stew
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil A healthy fat that enhances the flavors of the vegetables.
- 1 large onion, diced Sweetens as it cooks, becoming the base of your stew’s flavor.
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced For depth and incredible aroma—don’t skip this!
Vegetables
- 3 medium carrots, sliced Adds natural sweetness and color.
- 2 stalks celery, diced A nice crunch that pairs well with the other veggies.
- 1 large zucchini, chopped A tender veggie that cooks quickly and absorbs flavor beautifully.
- 1 large bell pepper (any color), diced Adds sweetness and vibrancy.
Protein and Broth
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed For protein and earthiness.
- 4 cups vegetable broth The soul of the stew; opt for low-sodium for better control over saltiness.
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano A comforting herbal note.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme Adds an earthy warmth.
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
Garnish
- 1 bunch fresh parsley for garnish A lovely touch that brightens the dish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for roasting.
- In a large oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and stir for an additional minute.
Cooking
- Toss in the carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Stir in the chopped zucchini and rinsed chickpeas. Add the dried oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
- Add the vegetable broth to the pot, bringing everything to a gentle simmer.
- Cover the pot with a lid and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 30 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become perfectly tender.
- After 30 minutes, check for seasoning and adjust with extra salt and pepper if needed. Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley on top to brighten it up.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.
📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest