Spring is in the air, and with it comes a fresh wave of flavors to brighten up your weeknights. As the weather warms up, there’s nothing like coming home to a delicious, comforting meal that’s been simmering away all day in your slow cooker. And what better way to celebrate the season than with a collection of 18 mouth-watering spring-inspired recipes that are sure to become new favorites?
From classic comfort foods to international flavors and innovative twists on traditional dishes, these slow-cooked masterpieces showcase the best of what spring has to offer. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and citrusy or rich and hearty, there’s a recipe here to suit your taste.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the world of slow cooker recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights, featuring fresh ingredients and bold flavors that will have you cooking up a storm all season long. So grab your apron, dust off your slow cooker, and get ready to sink your teeth into some amazing spring-inspired eats!
Lemon Herb Spring Chicken Stew
This refreshing stew is perfect for a light and satisfying meal on a warm spring day. With the brightness of lemon, the zest of herbs, and the comfort of chicken, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed spring vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and bell peppers)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the mixed vegetables, chicken broth, lemon juice, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Spring Vegetable Minestrone
As the weather warms up, brighten up your meals with this hearty and flavorful slow cooker recipe, featuring a medley of spring vegetables. This minestrone is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup sliced zucchini
– 1 cup sliced bell peppers
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 6 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the diced tomatoes, peas and carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, onion, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the cannellini beans.
3. Stir in the olive oil.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Rosemary Garlic Lamb Shanks with Spring Vegetables
This hearty dish combines tender lamb shanks with the bright flavors of spring vegetables and a hint of rosemary, perfect for a cozy dinner. The slow-cooked lamb falls-off-the-bone tender, while the rosemary adds a fragrant and herbaceous note.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 zucchinis, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb shanks on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Add the garlic and rosemary; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the sliced onion, carrots, and zucchinis to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are slightly caramelized, about 10 minutes.
5. Pour in the lamb broth or beef broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook for 2-1/2 hours or until the lamb is tender and falls apart easily.
7. Serve hot with the spring vegetables and juices spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Honey Glazed Carrots and Peas in the Slow Cooker
A deliciously easy and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion, these honey glazed carrots and peas cook to perfection in your slow cooker. The result is a sweet and savory blend of tender vegetables smothered in a sticky honey glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound baby carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped carrots, peas, honey, olive oil, lemon juice, and cumin to your slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Stir in any accumulated liquid from the cooking process.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Spring Greens and White Bean Soup
As the weather warms up, a light and refreshing soup is just what you need to brighten up your mealtime. This Spring Greens and White Bean Soup is a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and nutrients that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh spring greens (such as spinach, kale, or collard greens), chopped
– 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped spring greens and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the cannellini beans, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Asparagus and Mushroom Risotto
This recipe combines the flavors of asparagus, mushrooms, and Arborio rice with a creamy slow cooker risotto. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, divided
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until tender. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker. Add 2 cups of vegetable broth, asparagus, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in remaining broth if needed.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Herbed Potatoes with Spring Onions and Butter
A simple yet flavorful side dish that showcases the sweetness of spring onions and the richness of butter, perfectly complemented by fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped spring onions (about 4-5 onions), white and light green parts only
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine potato slices, softened butter, chopped chives or parsley, and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Mix until potatoes are evenly coated with the butter mixture.
4. Spread potato mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and lightly browned.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle chopped spring onions on top.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional chives or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Spring Pea and Mint Soup
This Slow Cooker Spring Pea and Mint Soup recipe brings together the sweetness of spring peas and the brightness of fresh mint for a refreshing and healthy meal. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen spring peas
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the peas, broth, and butter to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
2. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half (if using), onion, garlic, and mint. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours on low in a slow cooker.
Lemon Garlic Artichokes with Spring Herbs
Elevate your appetizer game with this bright and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of artichokes with the tanginess of lemon and garlic, all wrapped up in a spring herb bouquet.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 artichoke hearts (canned or fresh)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Add artichoke hearts to the bowl and toss until well coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with chopped parsley and dill.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until artichokes are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Ratatouille with Fresh Spring Vegetables
As spring awakens, bring warmth and flavor to your table with this vibrant slow cooker ratatouille recipe, bursting with fresh vegetables. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a healthy side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 red onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine eggplant, bell peppers, zucchini, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and thyme.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves, if desired.
5. Serve hot over rice, quinoa, or as a standalone side dish.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Springtime Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole
A hearty, flavorful dish perfect for a spring gathering or potluck, this casserole combines the freshness of spring with the comfort of a warm, satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups wild rice blend
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and bell peppers)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook wild rice blend according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic in olive oil until cooked through.
4. Add mixed spring vegetables to the skillet and cook until tender.
5. Combine cooked chicken mixture with cooked wild rice, chicken broth, and salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
This recipe combines the flavors of spinach, feta cheese, and chicken breast to create a deliciously easy meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this slow cooker recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, olive oil, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach mixture.
4. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Fresh Herb and Lemon Slow Cooker Salmon
Brighten up your mealtime with this flavorful and moist salmon recipe infused with the zest of lemon and freshness of herbs. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, dill, and garlic.
3. Place salmon fillets in the slow cooker and spoon the herb mixture evenly over each piece.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Spring Vegetable and Chickpea Curry
Brighten up your spring with this vibrant curry recipe, packed with a colorful mix of seasonal vegetables and nutritious chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper, carrot, zucchini, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in chickpeas, coconut milk, and water or broth.
5. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Leek and Potato Soup
This creamy soup is a perfect comfort food for a chilly day. With the ease of a slow cooker, you can come home to a warm and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large leeks, cleaned and chopped (white and light green parts only)
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped leeks, potatoes, onion, and chicken broth to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Citrus Glazed Pork Tenderloin with Spring Vegetables
Brighten up your springtime dinner table with this vibrant and flavorful recipe, featuring a juicy pork tenderloin smothered in a zesty citrus glaze and served alongside a colorful medley of spring vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (such as asparagus, bell peppers, and carrots)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, honey, mustard, and ginger.
3. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
4. Place the tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the citrus glaze evenly over the pork.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Toss the spring vegetables with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
8. Serve the glazed pork tenderloin alongside the spring vegetables and garnish with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Primavera Pasta Sauce
Transform a simple pasta dish into a flavorful and satisfying meal with this easy slow cooker primavera sauce recipe. Perfect for busy days or entertaining, this hearty sauce is made with fresh vegetables and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half, if desired, during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Easy Spring Herb and Garlic Beef Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect way to welcome spring with its tender beef, fragrant herbs, and rich garlic flavor. Serve it over crusty bread or with a side of roasted vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed spring herbs (such as parsley, rosemary, and thyme)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the herbs, onion, carrots, and bell pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the beef is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Summary
Get ready to spring into the world of slow cooking with these 18 fresh and delicious recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic chicken stews to innovative vegetable curries, these slow cooker recipes showcase the best of spring’s flavors and ingredients. Enjoy a variety of dishes such as Lemon Herb Spring Chicken Stew, Slow Cooker Spring Vegetable Minestrone, Rosemary Garlic Lamb Shanks with Spring Vegetables, and many more. These easy-to-make recipes are perfect for quick weeknight meals that are both healthy and flavorful.