Get ready to transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed Mediterranean with these 18 mouth-watering slow cooker recipes! Inspired by the region’s rich culinary heritage, these dishes combine bold flavors and fresh ingredients for a truly delicious and healthy experience. From hearty stews and soups to vibrant salads and sides, there’s something for everyone in this collection of Mediterranean-inspired crock pot recipes.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering, these slow cooker recipes are sure to impress. With their ease of preparation, tender textures, and explosion of flavors, they’re the perfect way to bring a taste of the Mediterranean into your own kitchen.
In this article, we’ll be exploring some of the most popular and beloved Mediterranean dishes, all adapted for the convenience of your crock pot. So, let’s dive in and discover the secrets to creating these delectable meals with minimal fuss and maximum flavor!
Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with the ease of a slow cooker, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white beans (such as cannellini or navy)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add chicken, onion, garlic, beans, tomatoes, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Greek Lamb Shanks
Moist and flavorful lamb shanks cooked low and slow in a rich Greek-inspired sauce, perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb shanks
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season lamb shanks with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; brown lamb shanks on all sides (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add sliced onion to the same skillet; cook until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Add garlic, oregano, and lemon juice to the skillet; stir for 1 minute.
5. Place lamb shanks in a Crock Pot with the sauce. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Mediterranean Lentil and Vegetable Soup
This hearty soup combines the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with the comfort of lentils and a variety of colorful vegetables. A perfect blend of healthy, wholesome ingredients and delicious taste!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Slow Cooker Moroccan Spiced Chickpeas
Add a burst of exotic flavor to your meals with these tender and aromatic slow-cooked chickpeas, infused with the warm spices of Morocco. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads, wraps, and bowls.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour in the chicken broth.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Fluff with a fork and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Mediterranean Eggplant Ratatouille
Transform your taste buds with this hearty and flavorful Crock Pot Mediterranean Eggplant Ratatouille, perfect for a cozy dinner or entertaining friends. This rich and savory dish combines the tender sweetness of eggplant, the brightness of tomatoes, and the depth of Mediterranean spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In the Crock Pot, layer eggplant slices, onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, olive oil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir well before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken
This recipe yields tender and flavorful chicken breasts infused with a bright and citrusy flavor profile, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to come home to a delicious meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker, making sure they are covered with the lemon mixture.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Mediterranean Style Slow Cooker Beef Stew
This hearty stew combines tender beef with a medley of Mediterranean flavors, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish perfect for a cold winter’s night. With minimal effort, this slow cooker recipe yields a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, canned
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours.
3. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Crock Pot Greek Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the warmth of Greece with the convenience of a Crock Pot. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef or lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
Instructions:
1. Preheat Crock Pot to low.
2. Cut tops off peppers, remove seeds and membranes. Place in Crock Pot.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef or lamb, onion, garlic, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, feta cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture, dividing it evenly.
5. Top each pepper with olives.
6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Serve:
Allow peppers to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with a side of warm pita bread and a simple green salad.
Slow Cooker Mediterranean Fish Stew
This hearty and flavorful stew is perfect for a relaxing weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can simmer this delicious meal all day while enjoying the aromas wafting from your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the fish pieces in the slow cooker.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper on top of the fish.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Stir the stew before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Crock Pot Herbed Mediterranean Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the essence of the Mediterranean with the convenience of a Crock Pot. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, these herbed potatoes are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the potatoes, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and oregano to a Crock Pot.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with lemon slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Mediterranean Quinoa Pilaf
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal that combines the heartiness of quinoa with the bright, zesty flavors of the Mediterranean. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add quinoa, water or broth, diced tomatoes, parsley, mint, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Greek Style Lemon Rice
Brighten up your meals with this flavorful and aromatic Crock Pot Greek Style Lemon Rice! This easy-to-make recipe combines the warmth of Mediterranean spices with the brightness of lemon, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice in a fine-mesh strainer and add to the Crock Pot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth, lemon juice, olive oil, onion, garlic, and oregano.
3. Pour the mixture over the rice in the Crock Pot.
4. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
5. Fluff with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-5 hours
Slow Cooker Mediterranean Vegetable Casserole
Bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table with this hearty and aromatic slow cooker casserole, packed with a variety of colorful vegetables and savory spices. Perfect for a comforting meal or a stress-free dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 eggplant, sliced
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, zucchini, and eggplant.
2. Add cooked brown rice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low), 3-4 hours (High)
Crock Pot Spiced Mediterranean Couscous
This Crock Pot Spiced Mediterranean Couscous recipe is a game-changer for cozy meals and gatherings. With the rich aroma of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon filling your home, you’ll be the star of any dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add couscous, water or broth, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper to a Crock Pot.
2. Stir until the couscous is well coated with the spices and liquid.
3. Cook on Low for 4-5 hours or High for 2-3 hours.
4. Fluff the couscous with a fork before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-5 hours
Slow Cooker Mediterranean Style Meatballs
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple and delicious slow cooker meatball recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a party, these meatballs are infused with the bold tastes of feta cheese, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, feta cheese, olives, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Roll into meatballs (about 20-25) and place in the slow cooker.
4. Pour in diced tomatoes and add oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Serve: With a side of warm pita bread, a green salad, or over a bed of quinoa and roasted vegetables.
Crock Pot Greek Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs
Brighten up your mealtime with this flavorful and aromatic Crock Pot recipe! Tender chicken thighs are infused with the essence of Greece, featuring a zesty lemon-herb marinade that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Place chicken thighs in the Crock Pot. Pour the marinade over the top, making sure each thigh is coated.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. If using white wine, pour it over the chicken during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice (if desired).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Mediterranean Artichoke and Olive Dip
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful and aromatic dip that combines the savory goodness of artichokes, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for parties or gatherings, this slow cooker recipe is easy to prepare and serves a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
3. Stir well before serving with pita chips, crackers, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Crock Pot Mediterranean Style Stuffed Zucchini
This recipe combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the convenience of a slow cooker to create a delicious and healthy meal. Tender zucchini boats are filled with a savory mixture of rice, tomatoes, feta cheese, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Crock Pot to low.
2. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out insides, leaving shells intact.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, diced tomatoes, feta cheese, parsley, mint, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each zucchini shell with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed zucchinis in the Crock Pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Summary
Discover the flavors of the Mediterranean with these 18 delicious and healthy crock pot recipes! From classic dishes like chicken stew and lamb shanks to innovative twists on lentil soup and stuffed peppers, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy bold flavors from Greece, Morocco, and beyond, all made easy with your slow cooker. With a range of options from vegan-friendly quinoa pilaf to meaty beef stews, you’ll find the perfect recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs.
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