25+ Easy New Year’s Slow Cooker Lunch Recipes to Kickstart Your New Year

As the New Year rolls in, it’s the perfect time to embrace fresh starts and delicious meals that are both satisfying and effortless.

Slow cookers are the unsung heroes of the kitchen, allowing you to prepare a variety of wholesome dishes with minimal fuss. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, meal prepping for the week, or simply looking for comforting lunches, slow cooker recipes are ideal for busy schedules.

With the holiday hustle and bustle behind us, you can indulge in nutritious, hearty meals that require little more than a few minutes of prep time.

In this article, we’ve compiled 25+ New Year’s Slow Cooker Lunch Recipes that will help you kickstart the year with flavor and ease.

From savory stews and comforting casseroles to vibrant veggie bowls, these recipes cater to all tastes and dietary preferences.

So, dust off your slow cooker and get ready to fill your home with enticing aromas while enjoying delicious meals that are sure to please everyone at the table.

25+ Easy New Year’s Slow Cooker Lunch Recipes to Kickstart Your New Year

Embracing the New Year with a commitment to nourishing meals doesn’t have to be daunting. With these 25+ New Year’s Slow Cooker Lunch Recipes, you can enjoy a diverse range of dishes that are not only delicious but also healthy and satisfying.

The convenience of the slow cooker means you can spend more time focusing on your New Year’s goals while still enjoying wholesome lunches.

Whether you prefer hearty meats, plant-based options, or something in between, there’s a recipe here for every palate.

So gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and prepare to savor the flavors of the season—making every lunch a delightful experience!

Slow Cooker Black-Eyed Peas with Ham

Start the New Year off right with this hearty and flavorful slow cooker black-eyed peas with ham recipe. Traditionally eaten on New Year’s Day in the Southern United States, black-eyed peas are believed to bring good luck. This dish combines tender peas with smoky ham and spices, creating a comforting meal that warms the heart. It’s not only easy to make but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice for lunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound dried black-eyed peas, rinsed and sorted
• 1 cup diced ham (smoked or cooked)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 4 cups chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Place the black-eyed peas in the slow cooker. Add the diced ham, onion, garlic, thyme, and smoked paprika.
2. Pour the chicken broth over the mixture and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the peas are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.

This slow cooker black-eyed peas with ham is a wonderful way to celebrate the New Year while enjoying a dish rich in tradition. The flavors meld beautifully as it cooks, making it a satisfying and nourishing lunch. Leftovers can easily be stored in the refrigerator, allowing you to enjoy this good luck meal throughout the week. Pair it with cornbread for a complete Southern experience!

Slow Cooker Vegetable Lentil Soup

Kick off the New Year with a healthy and delicious slow cooker vegetable lentil soup. Packed with nutrient-rich vegetables and protein-packed lentils, this soup is perfect for those looking to start the year on a healthy note. The slow cooker allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a comforting and hearty dish that can be enjoyed for lunch any day of the week.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown)
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the lentils under cold water and add them to the slow cooker.
2. Add the carrots, celery, bell pepper, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth.
3. Season with basil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until lentils are tender.
5. Before serving, adjust seasoning as needed and garnish with fresh parsley.

This slow cooker vegetable lentil soup is not only a nutritious and filling lunch option but also an easy recipe to prepare. It’s perfect for meal prep, as it keeps well in the refrigerator for several days, allowing you to grab a quick and healthy lunch. The combination of flavors and textures makes this soup comforting and satisfying, while the lentils provide a good source of protein and fiber. Enjoy it with a crusty piece of bread for a complete meal!

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

Bring the New Year in with these flavorful slow cooker BBQ chicken sandwiches, perfect for a laid-back lunch. This recipe combines tender shredded chicken with zesty barbecue sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Serve on buns with coleslaw for added crunch and flavor, making these sandwiches a delightful addition to your New Year’s menu.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Burger buns for serving
• Coleslaw (optional)

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour the barbecue sauce and chicken broth over the chicken.
2. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the chicken in the sauce.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
4. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it back into the sauce.
5. Serve on burger buns topped with coleslaw, if desired.

These slow cooker BBQ chicken sandwiches are an effortless and delicious way to celebrate the New Year. The juicy chicken paired with tangy barbecue sauce makes for a satisfying lunch that everyone will love. This recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd, and the leftovers can be easily reheated for quick lunches throughout the week. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for an easy meal, these sandwiches will add a burst of flavor to your New Year’s celebrations.

Slow Cooker Quinoa and Black Bean Chili

Start the New Year with a hearty and nutritious slow cooker quinoa and black bean chili. This plant-based dish is packed with protein, fiber, and an array of vibrant vegetables, making it a perfect choice for a healthy lunch. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and satisfying meal that’s great for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

Instructions:

1. In the slow cooker, combine the quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, garlic, and vegetable broth.
2. Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the quinoa is tender and the chili is thick.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

This slow cooker quinoa and black bean chili is not only wholesome but also incredibly versatile. It can be enjoyed on its own or served over rice or with tortilla chips for a satisfying lunch. This dish is perfect for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator and can be reheated throughout the week. With its robust flavors and nutritious ingredients, this chili is a fantastic way to kick off the New Year with health and happiness in mind!

Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers

Celebrate the New Year with the comforting flavors of slow cooker Italian sausage and peppers. This dish features savory Italian sausage cooked to perfection with colorful bell peppers and onions, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a delicious sandwich filling or a hearty topping for pasta, making it an excellent option for a satisfying lunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
• 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sub rolls or hoagie buns for serving
• Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Place the Italian sausage in the slow cooker. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir to combine and coat the sausage with the vegetables and spices.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the sausage is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
4. Serve the sausage and peppers on sub rolls, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

This slow cooker Italian sausage and peppers recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of Italy without spending all day in the kitchen. The slow cooking process ensures that the sausage becomes incredibly tender while infusing the peppers and onions with rich flavors. This dish is perfect for serving a crowd during New Year celebrations or for enjoying as a quick lunch during the busy week ahead. The leftovers can be easily reheated for a delicious meal on-the-go, making this a versatile addition to your New Year’s menu!

Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

Ring in the New Year with fun and flavorful slow cooker chicken tacos. This recipe features tender shredded chicken simmered in a zesty taco seasoning, making it an easy and delightful option for lunch. Serve with your favorite toppings for a customizable taco experience that everyone will love. These tacos are perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply for a quick lunch at home.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• Corn or flour tortillas for serving
• Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, salsa, avocado

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the chicken and pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes.
2. Stir to coat the chicken with the seasoning and liquids.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is tender and can be easily shredded.
4. Shred the chicken using two forks and mix it back into the sauce.
5. Serve in warm tortillas with your choice of toppings.

Slow cooker chicken tacos are a fantastic way to celebrate the New Year with a festive and interactive meal. The tender, flavorful chicken is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a great choice for gatherings or family lunches. The best part is the ability to customize your tacos with a variety of toppings, ensuring that everyone can create their perfect taco. Plus, this dish is simple to prepare and clean up, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the festivities. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for an easy meal prep option, these tacos will surely please any crowd!

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup

Warm up the New Year with this creamy chicken and mushroom soup, made effortlessly in your slow cooker. This comforting dish combines tender chicken, hearty mushrooms, and a velvety creamy broth, creating a rich and satisfying meal. Perfect for a cozy lunch, this soup is both nourishing and indulgent, making it an excellent choice for winter gatherings or chilly days.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker and top with the sliced mushrooms, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
2. Pour the chicken broth over the top and season with thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken and shred it. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir in the heavy cream.
5. Allow it to heat through and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

This slow cooker creamy chicken and mushroom soup is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for kicking off the New Year with a warm, hearty lunch. The creamy broth and tender chicken create a delightful combination, while the mushrooms add a lovely earthiness. This soup is perfect for serving in bowls with crusty bread for dipping or alongside a fresh salad. Plus, it stores well, making it ideal for leftovers during the week. Enjoy a bowl of this rich soup to nourish your body and spirit in the New Year!

Slow Cooker Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Delight in the flavors of Italian cuisine with these slow cooker spinach and ricotta stuffed shells. This dish features large pasta shells filled with a creamy ricotta and spinach mixture, all smothered in marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese. It’s a great option for a comforting lunch that feels indulgent but is easy to prepare and serve. Perfect for family gatherings or meal prep!

Ingredients:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Extra mozzarella for topping

Instructions:

1. Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each cooked shell with the cheese mixture and place them in the slow cooker.
4. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with additional mozzarella cheese.
5. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until the cheese is bubbly and the shells are heated through.

Slow cooker spinach and ricotta stuffed shells are a delightful and comforting option for your New Year’s lunch. The combination of creamy cheese, tender pasta, and zesty marinara creates a fulfilling meal that everyone will enjoy. This dish is perfect for leftovers, as the flavors deepen and improve over time. Whether served with a side salad or garlic bread, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and provide a satisfying start to the New Year!

Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken

Bring a taste of Thailand to your New Year’s lunch with this delicious slow cooker Thai peanut chicken. This dish features tender chicken cooked in a rich and creamy peanut sauce, infused with flavors of ginger and garlic. Served over rice or noodles, this meal is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Sliced green onions and crushed peanuts for garnish
• Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced ginger, and garlic until smooth.
2. Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker and pour the peanut sauce mixture over the top. Add the chicken broth.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
4. Shred the chicken with two forks and stir it back into the sauce.
5. Serve over cooked rice or noodles, garnished with sliced green onions and crushed peanuts.

Slow cooker Thai peanut chicken is a delightful dish that adds an exotic twist to your New Year celebrations. The creamy peanut sauce envelops the chicken in rich flavor, making each bite a delicious experience. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or an impressive dinner that can easily feed a crowd. The leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated for a quick meal, ensuring you enjoy the flavors throughout the week. Embrace the New Year with this vibrant and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a favorite!

Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chickpea Stew

Start the New Year with a healthy and hearty Mediterranean chickpea stew that’s brimming with flavor. This vibrant dish combines protein-rich chickpeas with a medley of vegetables and aromatic spices, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. Packed with nutrients and deliciousness, this stew is perfect for a comforting lunch, and it’s entirely plant-based, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup diced zucchini
• 1 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. In the slow cooker, combine the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir to mix all ingredients well.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are melded.
4. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil and a squeeze of lemon juice.

This slow cooker Mediterranean chickpea stew is a vibrant and nutritious way to celebrate the New Year. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a perfect lunch option that can easily be paired with crusty bread or served over quinoa or rice for an extra boost of nutrition. The stew is not only delicious but also easy to make, allowing you to focus on your New Year’s festivities while enjoying a warm and satisfying meal. Plus, it stores beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers throughout the week!

Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Kick off the New Year with some finger-licking good BBQ pulled pork sandwiches made in your slow cooker. This recipe features pork shoulder slow-cooked to perfection, absorbing the smoky and tangy flavors of barbecue sauce. Served on soft buns with coleslaw, these sandwiches are a crowd-pleaser and perfect for gatherings or casual lunches with family and friends.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 pounds pork shoulder or butt
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Hamburger buns for serving
• Coleslaw for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Rub the pork shoulder with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper, and place it on top of the onions.
3. Pour the BBQ sauce and chicken broth over the pork.
4. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Once cooked, shred the pork using two forks and mix it with the sauce.
6. Serve on hamburger buns topped with coleslaw, if desired.

These slow cooker BBQ pulled pork sandwiches are perfect for celebrating the New Year with delicious, hearty food that’s sure to impress your guests. The combination of tender, flavorful pork and tangy barbecue sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that pairs perfectly with the crunch of coleslaw. This recipe is ideal for meal prep, allowing you to serve a crowd or enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Kick off your New Year’s celebrations with these satisfying sandwiches that are sure to become a staple in your lunch rotation!

Slow Cooker Veggie and Lentil Curry

Embrace the New Year with a warm and comforting veggie and lentil curry made effortlessly in the slow cooker. This dish features hearty lentils and a colorful array of vegetables simmered in a fragrant curry sauce, creating a wholesome and satisfying meal. Perfect for lunch, this curry is packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a fantastic choice for health-conscious eaters.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dry lentils (red or green), rinsed
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cups diced vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, cauliflower, etc.)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Cooked rice or naan for serving

Instructions:

1. In the slow cooker, combine the lentils, coconut milk, diced tomatoes, onion, chopped vegetables, minced garlic, curry powder, ginger, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir to mix all ingredients thoroughly.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, alongside cooked rice or naan.

This slow cooker veggie and lentil curry is a delicious way to ring in the New Year with a nutritious and flavorful meal. The combination of spices, creamy coconut milk, and hearty lentils creates a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. Perfect for meal prep, this curry is excellent for leftovers, as the flavors deepen with time. Serve it over rice or with naan for a complete meal that will keep you energized and satisfied. Celebrate the New Year with this vibrant curry that nourishes both body and soul!

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Bowls

Start the New Year with a burst of flavor from these slow cooker teriyaki chicken bowls. This dish features tender chicken breasts simmered in a homemade teriyaki sauce, served over fluffy rice and topped with fresh vegetables. It’s a wholesome and satisfying meal that combines sweet and savory flavors, making it an ideal choice for a quick lunch that will energize your day.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 carrots, sliced
• Cooked rice for serving
• Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Pour half of this mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
2. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, add the broccoli florets and sliced carrots to the slow cooker. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the sauce before adding the vegetables.
4. Shred the chicken in the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce. Serve over cooked rice, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

These slow cooker teriyaki chicken bowls are a fantastic way to kick off the New Year with a healthy and flavorful meal. The combination of tender chicken, sweet teriyaki sauce, and vibrant vegetables creates a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. This recipe is easy to customize based on your preferences—add your favorite vegetables or swap out the chicken for tofu or another protein for a vegetarian option. Enjoy these bowls for lunch and relish the flavors that will keep you coming back for more!

Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

Indulge in the rich flavors of slow cooker beef stroganoff as you welcome the New Year. This classic comfort food features tender beef cooked in a creamy mushroom sauce, served over egg noodles or rice. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare in your slow cooker, making it perfect for a cozy lunch that the whole family will love.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Cooked egg noodles or rice for serving
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In the slow cooker, combine the beef stew meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced mushrooms, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or until the beef is tender.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the sour cream. If desired, mix cornstarch with a little water and stir into the beef mixture to thicken the sauce.
4. Serve the beef stroganoff over cooked egg noodles or rice, garnished with fresh parsley.

Slow cooker beef stroganoff is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a satisfying lunch as you ring in the New Year. The tender beef and creamy mushroom sauce create a rich and decadent meal that pairs beautifully with egg noodles or rice. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also makes excellent leftovers, as the flavors continue to develop. Treat yourself to this classic recipe that will warm you from the inside out and become a family favorite for years to come!

Slow Cooker Quinoa and Black Bean Chili

Celebrate the New Year with a hearty and nutritious quinoa and black bean chili made effortlessly in the slow cooker. Packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant flavors, this chili is perfect for a filling lunch that satisfies your taste buds while keeping you energized. It’s a great way to incorporate wholesome ingredients into your meal and is ideal for meatless Mondays or vegetarian gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Avocado and lime wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. In the slow cooker, combine the rinsed quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir to mix all ingredients well.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the quinoa is fluffy and the vegetables are tender.
4. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and lime wedges.

This slow cooker quinoa and black bean chili is a nourishing and delicious way to kick off the New Year. It’s loaded with wholesome ingredients that not only provide essential nutrients but also create a hearty and satisfying meal. The combination of spices and the natural creaminess of the black beans make this chili a standout dish, perfect for warming up on chilly winter days. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve on its own or with toppings like avocado, sour cream, or shredded cheese. Enjoy this chili for lunch and relish in the healthy start to the New Year!

Note: More recipes are coming soon!