3 Easy (and Healthy) Crockpot Meals

Every single day, we have the daunting task of trying to decide what we’re going to cook for dinner.  Sometimes we’re just feeding ourselves; other times, we’re feeding our whole families.  The choice ultimately comes down to: 1. Do I need to go to the grocery store?  2. Do I even have time to cook?  3. Should I just order takeout?

Takeout can get expensive, so you can’t rely on it regularly. Sometimes you just don’t know what you want to make, and other days, you don’t have a lot of time to cook.  That’s why the crockpot was invented!

Here are three quick, easy, and healthy recipes with only a few ingredients (many of which you probably have around your home).

Crockpot Salsa Chicken

This one is one of the easiest recipes and is really good for you too!

Ingredients:

• 1 chicken breast per person eating (or plan for some leftovers…this keeps great!)
• 1 medium jar favorite salsa in the heat level of your choice
• Salt
• Pepper
• Cajun seasoning (if you like spicy)
• Brown rice

Steps:

1. Place the chicken breast in a crockpot and lightly season with salt and pepper. (NOTE:  If you’re cutting salt out of your diet for health concerns, try saltless seasonings like Mrs. Dash.  For this recipe, the Garlic & Herbs Mrs. Dash seasoning is a great option!)
2. If you like (and can handle) spiciness, add 1 tbsp of Cajun seasoning spread along the top of all chicken breasts.
3. Dump (yes, DUMP) salsa on top of the chicken. Cover the entire top of the chicken breast with salsa.
4. Cover crockpot and cook chicken on low for 4-5 hours (until cooked through).
5. Once the chicken is complete, cook brown rice according to the directions on the box.
6. Remove chicken from crockpot, shred with a fork (or cut into pieces), and serve over rice with a side of your favorite veggie. (It goes great with spinach salads or baked broccoli!)

Quinoa Mexican Tacos

For when you’re craving Mexican food but want it to be healthy (and cheap), these tacos are a great way to go!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) black beans
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes in tomato juice
• 1 can (10 ounces) enchilada sauce
• 1 can (15 ounces) corn
• 1 packet (1.25 ounces) taco seasoning
• Whole Wheat (or gluten-free) tortillas

Steps:

1. Place all ingredients except tortillas in the crockpot on high for 4 hours.
2. When quinoa is cooked all the way through, serve on tortillas, and add salsa and sliced avocado as a little addition!
3. That’s it. It’s really that easy!

Cauliflower Mac & Cheese

This may sound weird, but it’s so delicious, and kids even love it!

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower
• ¼ cup chopped green onions
• 1 can cheddar soup, condensed
• 1 (5 oz.) can evaporated milk
• Salt & pepper
• 2 cups low fat shredded cheddar cheese

Steps:

1. Grease the crock pot with olive oil cooking spray and place cauliflower florets in the pot.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining ingredients over medium heat and constantly stir until the cheese is melted.
3. Pour sauce over cauliflower florets.
4. Cook on low for 3 ½ – 4 hours.

We hope you enjoy these simple, easy, and healthy crockpot meals. If you make too much, freeze the leftovers for later.