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Cooking with fresh summer produce not only enhances the flavor of your meals but also contributes significantly to your health. Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes are bursting with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them essential components of a balanced diet. Eating in season means that you are consuming produce at its peak freshness, which not only tastes better but also retains more nutritional value.

SUMMER VEGETABLE STEW

Brighten up your summer with this delicious Summer Vegetable Stew! Packed with fresh zucchini, yellow squash, bell peppers, and a mix of seasonal veggies, this hearty dish is perfect for any meal. Sauté aromatics, add a colorful array of vegetables, and let it simmer to blend all those amazing flavors together. Ready in just 45 minutes, it's the ideal light yet satisfying dish to enjoy warm or serve with crusty bread. Enjoy healthy eating all summer long!

Ingredients
  

1 medium zucchini, diced

1 medium yellow squash, diced

1 bell pepper (red or yellow), chopped

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

4 cups vegetable broth

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried basil

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.

    Add the Vegetables: Stir in the diced zucchini, yellow squash, and bell pepper. Sauté for an additional 5 minutes, mixing occasionally, until they begin to soften.

      Incorporate Corn and Green Beans: Add the corn kernels and the green beans to the pot. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

        Simmer with Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the halved cherry tomatoes, thyme, basil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the stew to a gentle boil.

          Cook the Stew: Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to tenderize.

            Final Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If the stew has thickened too much, you can add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

              Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy hot with crusty bread for dipping!

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4