Name: Slow Cooker Hearty Vegetable and Lentil Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 25 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Ingredients: 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juice; 1 bay leaf; 1 cup chopped kale or spinach; 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained; 1 large onion, diced; 1 medium potato, diced; 1 medium zucchini, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 2 carrots, sliced into rounds; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth, low-sodium; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Salt and black pepper, to taste

This Slow Cooker Hearty Vegetable and Lentil Stew is a wholesome, flavorful dish that brings warmth to any table. Packed with protein-rich lentils, colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices, it’s an easy, hands-off meal that simmers to perfection, filling your home with inviting aromas. Ideal for busy days or cozy nights, this vegan-friendly stew is both nourishing and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Hearty Vegetable and Lentil Stew is a true crowd-pleaser, combining ease, nutrition, and incredible taste. The slow cooker simplifies preparation, allowing you to toss in ingredients and let the magic happen while you go about your day. The lentils provide a satisfying, protein-packed base, while the medley of vegetables adds color, texture, and essential nutrients. The warm, smoky spices create a cozy, comforting aroma that fills your kitchen, making it perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. It’s versatile, vegan-friendly, and budget-conscious, using pantry staples and affordable produce. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or feeding a crowd. Whether you’re a busy parent, a health-conscious eater, or simply craving comfort food, this stew delivers warmth and flavor in every bowl.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Batch Prep: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Texture Tip: For a creamier stew, blend a small portion and stir it back in.
Meal Prep: Chop veggies the night before to save time in the morning.
Flavor Boost: A splash of lemon juice before serving brightens the flavors.

Yield: Serves 6

Slow Cooker Hearty Vegetable and Lentil Stew

A comforting, nutrient-packed slow cooker stew with lentils and vibrant vegetables, perfect for cozy, hassle-free meals.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 8 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 8 hours 25 minutes

Ingredients

1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juice
1 bay leaf
1 cup chopped kale or spinach
1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
1 large onion, diced
1 medium potato, diced
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp dried thyme
2 carrots, sliced into rounds
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups vegetable broth, low-sodium
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Rinse the Lentils: Start by rinsing the lentils under cold water to remove any debris. Drain and set aside. This ensures a clean, earthy base for your stew.
Prep the Veggies: Dice the onion, slice the carrots and celery, and chop the zucchini and bell pepper. Mince the garlic. Having everything ready makes assembly a breeze!
Sauté for Flavor: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step enhances the stew’s depth.
Load the Slow Cooker: Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to the slow cooker. Add lentils, carrots, celery, zucchini, bell pepper, potato, and diced tomatoes.
Add Broth and Spices: Pour in the vegetable broth. Sprinkle in smoked paprika, cumin, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine all the flavors.
Set and Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until lentils and vegetables are tender. The slow cooker does all the work!
Add Greens: About 10 minutes before serving, stir in chopped kale or spinach. This adds a vibrant color and nutrient boost without overcooking the greens.
Taste and Adjust: Remove the bay leaf. Taste the stew and adjust salt or pepper as needed. The flavors should be rich and balanced.
Garnish and Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot. Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Enjoy the Leftovers: This stew tastes even better the next day as flavors meld. Store leftovers for easy, delicious meals throughout the week.

Notes

Rinse lentils thoroughly to avoid a gritty texture.
Sautéing onions and garlic enhances flavor but can be skipped for an even easier prep.
Add greens at the end to preserve their color and nutrients.
For a thicker stew, mash a few potatoes against the side of the slow cooker before serving.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per ServingCalories 188Total Fat 5gSaturated Fat 1gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 4gCholesterol 0mgSodium 310mgCarbohydrates 31gFiber 7gSugar 11gProtein 7g

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

Ingredients Notes

Lentils are the star of this stew, providing protein and fiber; green or brown varieties hold their shape best.
Use fresh, vibrant vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers for natural sweetness and texture.
Low-sodium vegetable broth allows better control over seasoning.
Smoked paprika and cumin add depth, while kale or spinach boosts nutrition.
Diced tomatoes contribute a slight tang, tying the flavors together. Fresh parsley as a garnish adds a bright, herbaceous finish.

Variations and Substitutions

This stew is highly customizable to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Swap green lentils for red lentils for a softer texture, though they may cook faster. Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter, nutrient-dense twist. Add mushrooms for an earthy, umami flavor or swap kale for Swiss chard or collard greens. For a heartier meal, include cooked chickpeas or white beans. If you’re not vegan, you can use chicken broth for a different flavor profile or add a sprinkle of Parmesan on top. For a smoky twist, try chipotle powder instead of smoked paprika. If you’re avoiding nightshades, skip the tomatoes and bell peppers, and add extra zucchini or green beans. You can also experiment with herbs like rosemary or oregano for a Mediterranean flair.

Storage Options

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, or microwave until warmed through.