Are you looking for simple, healthy, and delicious ways to use up those abundant summer courgettes? Look no further! This post is packed with easy courgette slow cooker recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times; these dishes are all about maximizing flavour with minimal effort. From hearty stews to comforting side dishes, we've got something for everyone. Get ready to discover the magic of slow-cooked courgette!
Creamy Courgette and Chickpea Curry (Serves 4)
This vibrant curry is a fantastic example of how easy healthy meals can be. It's packed with flavour, protein, and fibre – perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch prep.
Ingredients:
- 2 large courgettes, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp turmeric
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or naan bread, for serving
Instructions:
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Bloom Spices: Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pan. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Slow Cooker Magic: Transfer the onion mixture to your slow cooker. Add chopped courgettes and chickpeas. Pour in coconut milk, season with salt and pepper, and stir well to combine.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the courgettes are tender.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with cooked rice or naan bread.
Cooking Tips:
- For a smoother curry, you can blend a portion of the cooked curry before serving.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like diced potatoes, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: Approximately 15g
- Fiber: Approximately 10g
Courgette and Tomato Slow Cooker Sauce (Serves 6-8)
This versatile sauce is perfect for pasta, pizza, or even as a dip for crusty bread. It’s a delicious and easy way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
Ingredients:
- 3 large courgettes, roughly chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Sauté Vegetables: Sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
- Slow Cooker Assembly: Add the chopped courgettes, tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
- Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, or until the courgettes are very soft.
- Blend (Optional): For a smoother sauce, blend using an immersion blender or carefully transfer to a regular blender.
- Serve: Serve over pasta, use as a pizza topping, or enjoy with crusty bread.
This simple recipe is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its best, transforming humble ingredients into delicious and satisfying dishes. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy a fantastic meal with minimal effort and maximum flavour. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique variations. Enjoy!