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During the winter months, slow cookers can practically be considered a staple in our culinary repertoires. How else can one prep for dinner in the morning with minimal effort and find themselves with an outcome that pretty much always satisfies? A saving grace, no doubt, it’s one kitchen item we tend to retire as the season turns. Let’s face it, when it comes to cooking in warmer weather, a slow cooker is hardly the first method that comes to mind. But we’re here to change all that. Enter: The mouthwatering
that will make you reconsider.
Easy Pulled Pork Sandwiches Yet another summer classic, made surprisingly easy, thanks to your trusty slow cooker. Once cooked, pair with homemade coleslaw, pickled jalapeno slices, and lightly toasted buns.
Slow-Cooked Cajun Corn Summer and corn go hand-in-hand and so naturally, we’ll be whipping up this Cajun-spiced version from Taste of Home. The best part? You don’t have to worry about burning it on the grill.
Mexican Chili Lime Chicken It seems like once the warm weather hits, we can’t help but crave light and fresh flavors, especially when that involves guacamole—these mini bowls of shredded chicken definitely fit the bill. Comprised of a mix of sweet and spicy flavors, the tender chicken makes for the ultimate weeknight dinner.
Seafood Stew During the season in which seafood is at its prime, we’re all for getting a little creative with our dinners. This scallop and shrimp-based stew combines a dynamic slew of flavors with a spicy tomato broth.
Lo Mein Recreate this takeout staple by Damn Delicious in a slow cooker for a healthier take that’s loaded with veggies.
Garden Salsa Summer wouldn’t be complete without chips and salsa. This no-fuss recipe from the Recipe Critic features tomatoes slow-cooked with a medley of fresh herbs and peppers for added heat.
Beer Pulled Pork Nachos Consider this the dish from Bakers Royale that’ll make you the hostess of the season. Pair your typical plate of nacho fixings with a sweet ale and ginger spiced pulled pork garnish.
Sangria Yep, you can make sangria in a crock pot. Simply let the flavors of the wine and fresh fruit blend in the slow cooker for a few hours and then refrigerate overnight for a chilled effect.
Jalapeno Popper Chicken Taquitos These crispy taquitos by Le Creme de la Crumb feature cream cheese, jalapenos, and a generous handful of shredded cheese.
Thai Chicken Soup Skip the takeout and make this Thai classic with a recipe from Foodie Crush. Double the curry, add whole lemongrass and basil leaves (remove before eating), and throw in a whole jalapeno for an extra kick of spice.
Pork Carnitas Tacos What makes these tacos from Host the Toast so special? The chipotle cream sauce and pickled onion and jalapeño garnish may have something to do with it.
Cream Cheese Chicken Chili A light yet creamy take by Le Creme de la Crumb on the classic chicken chili starring cream cheese, beans, and plenty of spice.
Crockpot Shrimp Tacos These fire roasted shrimp tacos by Cotter Crunch are saturated with roasted tomatoes, chili peppers, and fresh cilantro.
S’mores Brownies Skip the campfire ritual and opt for this utterly decadent marshmallow layered brownie treat created by Something Swanky.
Crab Dip Delish concocted a fresh summer crab baked into a deliciously creamy dip with scallions, garlic, and parmesan.
Lasagna Homemade lasagna doesn’t get easier from the crock pot variety—it pretty much does all the work for you. Repurpose this recipe from Gimme Some Oven with squash or zucchini for a refreshing summer twist.
Brown Sugar BBQ Ribs For when you just don’t feel like firing up the grill, these fall-off-the-bone crock pot ribs by Six Sisters’ Stuff are there to save the day.
Nutella Bread Yes you can make dessert in a crock pot, and YES, we can’t believe that a nutella swirl bread this good exists (thanks, Blog Lovin).
Sesame Meatballs Serve these spicy garlic by Little Broken meatballs up at your next outdoor fete in lieu of the typical hors d’oeuvres.
Lemon Bar Cookies Lemon bars made in a slow cooker are easier than you think, and it comes with a crispy edge.
Mexican Street Corn Dip Try this summer classic as a dip: Girl Versus Dough’s recipe calls for shredding the corn and placing in the slow cooker with sour cream, lime juice, hot sauce, and cheese.
Hawaiian Barbecue Baked Beans This sweet and spicy mix created by Carlsbad Craving features a bean blend soaked in a brown sugar and dijon marinade, and slow cooked to hearty perfection.
Lobster Bisque With Old Bay seasoning, fresh lobster tails, and a creamy garlic broth, this classic soup is guaranteed to be a hit.
Originally published May 2017. Updated March 2018.
Read More:
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