Crockpot Quinoa and Vegetable Stew

This Crockpot Quinoa and Vegetable Stew is a hearty, nutritious meal packed with vibrant veggies and protein-rich quinoa. Slow-cooked to perfection, it’s a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, offering wholesome goodness with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crockpot Quinoa and Vegetable Stew is a warm hug in a bowl, combining wholesome ingredients into a nourishing, flavorful meal. The slow cooker makes it effortless, letting the vibrant vegetables and nutty quinoa meld into a rich, savory stew that’s both satisfying and healthy. It’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or chilly evenings when you crave comfort without the fuss. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, vegan-friendly, and endlessly customizable—add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this stew will become a go-to in your recipe rotation!

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Rinse Quinoa: Always rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove its bitter saponin coating for a cleaner, nuttier flavor.
• Chop Evenly: Cut vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and a balanced texture in every bite.
• Layer Ingredients: Place heartier veggies like carrots and potatoes at the bottom of the crockpot for optimal cooking.
• Check Liquid Levels: If the stew thickens too much, add an extra ¼ cup of broth during the last hour.
• Taste and Adjust: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preferences.
• Serve Fresh: Garnish with fresh herbs just before serving to enhance flavor and presentation.

Yield: 8 servings

Crockpot Quinoa and Vegetable Stew

Print

Crockpot Quinoa and Vegetable Stew is a hearty, healthy, vegan-friendly dish, slow-cooked for rich flavors and easy prep.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 6 hours

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 6 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Rinse the Quinoa: Place quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold water for 1-2 minutes to remove bitterness. Set aside.
2. Prep the Crockpot: Lightly spray the crockpot with cooking spray or add a small drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Layer Heartier Veggies: Add diced carrots and potatoes to the bottom of the crockpot for even cooking and tender results.
4. Add Remaining Veggies: Top with diced zucchini, onion, garlic, and the can of diced tomatoes with their juices for flavor.
5. Incorporate Quinoa: Sprinkle the rinsed quinoa evenly over the vegetables, ensuring it’s well-distributed for consistent cooking.
6. Pour in Broth: Add the vegetable broth, ensuring all ingredients are just covered for a perfect stew consistency.
7. Season the Stew: Sprinkle in thyme, smoked paprika, and the bay leaf. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
8. Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and veggies to soften.
9. Add Spinach: In the last 10 minutes, stir in the fresh spinach until wilted, adding vibrant color and nutrients.
10. Garnish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf, taste and adjust seasoning, then garnish with parsley and serve warm with crusty bread or alone.

Notes

• Rinse quinoa thoroughly to avoid a bitter taste in the stew.
• For a thicker stew, reduce broth to 3.5 cups; for a soupier consistency, add an extra ½ cup.
• Stir gently before serving to ensure quinoa and veggies are evenly distributed.
• Pair with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

Nutrition Information

Yield

8

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 98Total Fat 1gSaturated Fat 0gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 1gCholesterol 0mgSodium 160mgCarbohydrates 21gFiber 3gSugar 4gProtein 3g

The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

• Quinoa (1 cup): Provides protein and a nutty texture; rinse well to avoid bitterness.
• Vegetable Broth (4 cups): Adds depth and richness; use low-sodium to control saltiness.
• Carrots (2 medium): Diced for sweetness and crunch; choose firm, fresh carrots for best results.
• Zucchini (1 medium): Adds mild flavor and soft texture; dice small for even cooking.
• Potatoes (2 medium): Yukon gold or red potatoes hold their shape well; peel if preferred.
• Diced Tomatoes (14.5 oz can): Adds tangy depth; use fire-roasted for a smoky twist.
• Onion (1 medium): Yellow or white onions provide savory sweetness; dice finely for even distribution.
• Garlic (3 cloves): Minced fresh garlic enhances aroma and flavor; adjust to taste.
• Spinach (2 cups): Fresh baby spinach wilts perfectly; add at the end to retain color and nutrients.
• Spices (thyme, paprika, bay leaf): Thyme and paprika add warmth, while a bay leaf deepens the flavor profile.

Variations and Substitutions

• Grain Swap: Replace quinoa with farro, barley, or brown rice for a different texture; adjust cooking time as needed.
• Vegetable Options: Add or substitute with veggies like sweet potatoes, green beans, peas, or mushrooms for variety.
• Protein Boost: Stir in cooked chickpeas, lentils, or white beans for extra heartiness and protein.
• Spice It Up: Add chili flakes, cumin, or curry powder for a bolder, spicier stew.
• Broth Alternatives: Use chicken broth for non-vegan versions or coconut milk for a creamy twist.
• Greens Swap: Replace spinach with kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens for a different leafy green vibe.

Storage Options

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally, to maintain texture and flavor.

Dish Gallery

Please share this Crockpot Quinoa and Vegetable Stew with your friends and do a comment below about your feedback.

We will meet you on next article.

Until you can read, Crockpot Queso with Chorizo