Slow Cooker Mediterranean Diet Stew

With a focus on vegetables, fiber-rich legumes and healthy fats, this slow-cooker stew fits the bill for those following the Mediterranean diet. Swap out the chickpeas for white beans for a different twist, or try collards or spinach in place of the kale.

Ingredients

  • 2 (14.5-ounce) cans no-salt-added fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • ¾ cup chopped carrot
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added chickpeas, rinsed, divided
  • 1 bunch lacinato kale, stemmed and chopped (about 8 cups)
  • fresh basil leaves, torn if large, for garnish (optional)