Are you looking for a delicious and healthy meal that's easy to prepare and perfect for a crowd? Look no further! This hearty Crockpot Vegetable Medley is the answer to your dinner prayers. Imagine tender, flavorful vegetables simmered to perfection in a rich, savory broth – a comforting and satisfying dish that's as impressive as it is simple. This easy recipe requires minimal prep time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this show-stopping yet surprisingly simple homemade dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 yellow squash, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup chopped mushrooms
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Optional: 1 cup of your favorite beans (kidney, black, or pinto) for added protein.
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. This step enhances the flavor of your vegetables and creates a deeper taste profile for your delicious dish.
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Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Add the bell peppers, zucchini, squash, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, mushrooms, oregano, basil, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. If using beans, add them now.
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Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the vegetables are tender. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together, resulting in a richer and more flavorful meal.
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Season and Serve: Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed. This simple step allows you to personalize your dish according to your taste preferences. Serve hot and enjoy! This healthy and satisfying meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend gathering.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Vegetable Medley:
- Don't overcook the vegetables: Overcooked vegetables can become mushy. Check for tenderness after the minimum cooking time and adjust accordingly.
- Feel free to experiment with vegetables: This recipe is very versatile. Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as potatoes, parsnips, or butternut squash.
- Add protein: Boost the protein content by adding cooked lentils, chickpeas, or quinoa.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream before serving for a creamier texture.
- Garnish for presentation: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness.
Variations:
- Spicy Medley: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Italian Medley: Add a teaspoon of dried thyme and a pinch of red pepper flakes for an Italian twist.
- Mediterranean Medley: Add chopped Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a Mediterranean flair.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 200-250 (depending on vegetables and additions)
- Protein: 7-10g
- Fiber: 8-10g
This Crockpot Vegetable Medley is a fantastic example of how easy and delicious healthy meals can be. It's a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, and offers a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables. Enjoy this crowd-pleasing recipe and let us know how you liked it!