Slow Cookin'

There are some days when my schedule is overbooked and spending time in the kitchen is cut short. This, however, doesn't prevent me from putting a healthy meal on the table. My secret? A slow cooker/crockpot. This is one of my must-have, can't-live-without kitchen gadgets because I can practically toss broth, vegetables, beans and cooked chicken, beef, or turkey into it and have a delicious soup or roast with little fuss. It's a great way to use leftovers and save a little time. I can easily prepare something before I leave for work and come home to a slow-cooked meal for dinner.

I've collected several recipes to share, but don't feel limited by these. Get creative, use up your leftovers and create your own recipe. And, even though a recipe may not technically be a slow cooker recipe, you can easily make it one. Slow cooking will only bring out rich flavors all the ingredients.

Tuscan Chicken with White Beans and Wilted Greens

Minestrone Soup with Pasta, Beans and Vegetables

Beef Stew

Mediterranean Lamb and Lentil Stew

Slow cooker honey baked apples

Crockpot Oatmeal with Cranberries & Dates