Vegetable stew

Vegetable Stew: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe for Summer Days

Total Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn't love a savory vegetable stew, full of flavor and color? This recipe is not only simple but also packed with nutrients, making it ideal for warm days or a light dinner. The vegetable stew is a versatile recipe that can be customized based on seasonal vegetables or personal preferences. Over time, recipes like this have been passed down from generation to generation, representing an excellent way to use fresh vegetables and create a healthy and tasty dish.

Basic Ingredients:

- 2 medium zucchinis
- 5 bell peppers (you can mix colors for a more appealing look)
- 6 ripe tomatoes
- 2 sausages (preferably pork or chicken, but you can also use vegetarian options)
- 3 medium onions
- Olive oil or vegetable oil (about 3 tablespoons)
- 1 tablespoon of concentrated tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- Spices (pepper, paprika, oregano, to preference)

Preparing the Vegetable Stew

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Start by peeling and finely chopping the onions. This step is essential as the onion will form the base of the dish's flavors. Wash the zucchinis, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Cut the zucchinis into cubes, the bell peppers into strips, and the tomatoes into smaller pieces. If you are using larger tomatoes, it is recommended to blanch them and remove the skin for a finer texture.

Step 2: Sautéing the Onions
In a large pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. You can add a pinch of salt here to help the onion release its juices. Add the tablespoon of tomato paste and mix well, allowing the flavors to blend.

Step 3: Adding the Vegetables
Add the zucchinis, bell peppers, and tomatoes to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Make sure the vegetables are evenly coated with the flavored oil. You can also add a few fresh basil leaves if you have them on hand for an extra flavor boost.

Step 4: Boiling
Add enough water to the pot to cover the vegetables (about 500 ml). Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. When the vegetables are almost cooked, add the sausages cut into pieces about 2 cm long. They will add extra flavor to your stew.

Step 5: Seasoning
After adding the sausages, season with salt, pepper, and your preferred spices. A good idea is to use a little sweet or hot paprika, depending on your preferences. Let everything simmer together for another 5-7 minutes so that the flavors combine perfectly.

Step 6: Serving
Once the stew is ready, remove the pot from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the stew hot, alongside fresh bread or boiled rice. You can add a spoonful of sour cream on top or crumbled feta cheese for an even more delicious taste.

Practical Tips:

1. Vegetarian Option: You can replace the sausages with tofu or mushrooms for a completely vegetarian version of this stew.
2. Seasonal Vegetables: Feel free to use seasonal vegetables like eggplants, carrots, or peas. Each vegetable adds a unique touch.
3. Freezing: The vegetable stew freezes very well. Therefore, you can prepare a larger quantity and keep it for days when you don't have time to cook.
4. Frequently Asked Questions:
- What can I use instead of tomato paste?: If you don't have tomato paste, you can use tomato sauce or even tomato puree.
- Can it be made in advance?: Absolutely! The vegetable stew can be prepared a day in advance and will intensify its flavors.

Nutritional Benefits:
This vegetable stew is packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Zucchinis are rich in fiber and vitamin C, while tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Additionally, bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, contributing to strengthening the immune system.

For a complete culinary experience, I recommend serving the vegetable stew alongside a glass of white wine or fresh lemonade. This way, you'll enjoy a feast full of flavors, colors, and nutrients.

So, I invite you to try this vegetable stew and enjoy all its benefits! Whether you prepare it for a family meal or a dinner with friends, it will surely become a dish appreciated by everyone. Cook with love, experiment, and remember that every recipe is a story you write with each ingredient!