37 vegetarian slow cooker recipes for spring 37 Vegetarian Slow Cooker Recipes for Fresh Spring Meals

Updated On: October 4, 2025

Spring is the perfect time to embrace fresh, vibrant flavors while keeping meal prep easy and stress-free. What better way to do that than with a slow cooker?

Slow cooker meals allow you to combine wholesome ingredients and let them simmer to perfection, filling your home with inviting aromas. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent on the go, or simply love the convenience of set-it-and-forget-it cooking, these 37 vegetarian slow cooker recipes for spring will become your new kitchen favorites.

From hearty stews to light salads and comforting casseroles, these recipes celebrate seasonal vegetables and fresh herbs, making every meal a delight. You’ll find a variety of textures and flavors that are perfect for spring dinners, lunches, or even make-ahead meals for busy days.

Plus, each dish is designed to maximize nutrition while keeping things meat-free and incredibly tasty.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These vegetarian slow cooker recipes are not only delicious but also incredibly convenient. By using your slow cooker, you can save time on active cooking and reduce cleanup.

Each recipe highlights fresh spring produce like asparagus, peas, artichokes, and leafy greens, ensuring your meals are light yet satisfying.

Additionally, these recipes are perfect for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned cooks. You’ll enjoy the versatility of slow cooker meals, which often improve in flavor the longer they cook.

Many recipes are also freezer-friendly, so you can prep meals in advance and enjoy homemade goodness anytime.

Ingredients

  • Fresh spring vegetables: asparagus, peas, artichokes, zucchini, spring onions, radishes
  • Legumes and grains: lentils, chickpeas, black beans, quinoa, barley
  • Herbs and aromatics: garlic, shallots, thyme, rosemary, parsley, basil
  • Dairy and dairy alternatives: feta cheese, ricotta, coconut milk, cashew cream
  • Spices and seasonings: smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili flakes, salt, pepper
  • Broths and liquids: vegetable broth, tomato sauce, coconut milk, lemon juice
  • Oils and vinegars: olive oil, balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar
  • Other key ingredients: tofu, tempeh, mushrooms, sweet potatoes, carrots

Equipment

  • Slow cooker or crockpot: A programmable slow cooker is ideal for timing and temperature control.
  • Cutting board and sharp knives: For prepping vegetables and herbs.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
  • Mixing bowls: For combining spices, sauces, and ingredients before adding to the cooker.
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring and serving.
  • Colander: For rinsing legumes or draining vegetables.

Instructions

  1. Prepare your vegetables and legumes: Wash and chop all fresh ingredients according to your recipe’s instructions. Rinse any dried beans or lentils if using.
  2. Sauté aromatics (optional): For added flavor, lightly sauté garlic, shallots, or onions in a pan before adding them to your slow cooker.
  3. Layer ingredients in the slow cooker: Add harder vegetables and legumes first, followed by softer vegetables and liquids like broth or tomato sauce.
  4. Add herbs and spices: Sprinkle your seasoning blend evenly over the ingredients. Fresh herbs can be added early or reserved for garnish.
  5. Set the slow cooker: Choose the appropriate heat setting (low or high) and cook time as per the recipe. Typical cook times range from 4 to 8 hours.
  6. Check doneness: Near the end of cooking, check vegetable tenderness and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  7. Add final touches: Stir in fresh herbs, dairy, or plant-based creams just before serving for freshness and creaminess.
  8. Serve and enjoy: Ladle your dish into bowls or plates and garnish as desired.

Tips & Variations

“For the best texture, avoid overcooking delicate spring vegetables like asparagus and peas. Add these in the last 30-45 minutes of cooking.”

  • Try swapping legumes: Use chickpeas instead of lentils or black beans for a different flavor and texture.
  • Add a protein boost: Incorporate tofu or tempeh cubes to increase protein content.
  • Make it spicy: Include fresh jalapeños or chili flakes to add a kick to your slow cooker meals.
  • Use seasonal herbs: Experiment with fresh dill, mint, or tarragon for unique spring flavors.
  • For a creamy texture, stir in coconut milk or cashew cream at the end of cooking.
  • Freeze leftovers in portioned containers for quick meals during busy weekdays.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (approx.)
Calories 250-350 kcal
Protein 10-15 g
Carbohydrates 30-45 g
Dietary Fiber 8-12 g
Fat 7-12 g (mostly healthy fats)
Sodium 350-500 mg
Vitamins & Minerals Rich in Vitamin A, C, Iron, and Potassium

Serving Suggestions

These vegetarian slow cooker dishes pair beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Serve warm lentil and vegetable stews over fluffy quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome meal.

Fresh salads or steamed greens complement creamy slow cooker risottos or casseroles.

For lighter options, enjoy a bowl alongside crusty whole-grain bread or garlic naan. Adding a dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese can enhance texture and flavor.

Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for that vibrant spring touch.

If you want to explore more delicious recipes, check out our Breakfast Wellington Recipe, or for a different protein option, try the Braised Pork Ribs With Radish Recipe. For a unique twist on poultry, the Bluebill Duck Recipes are a must-try.

37 Vegetarian Slow Cooker Recipes for Spring

Spring Vegetable & Lentil Stew

  • Ingredients: green lentils, carrots, celery, asparagus, garlic, vegetable broth, thyme
  • Instructions: Layer lentils, chopped vegetables, broth, and seasonings in slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours. Add asparagus in last 30 minutes.

Creamy Coconut Chickpea Curry

  • Ingredients: canned chickpeas, coconut milk, diced tomatoes, garlic, ginger, curry powder, spinach
  • Instructions: Combine all ingredients except spinach. Cook on low for 5 hours. Stir in spinach 15 minutes before serving.

Spring Minestrone Soup

  • Ingredients: cannellini beans, zucchini, peas, carrots, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, pasta, basil
  • Instructions: Add beans, vegetables, broth, and seasonings to slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add pasta in last 15 minutes.

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa & Black Beans

  • Ingredients: bell peppers, cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, tomato sauce, cumin, cilantro
  • Instructions: Mix quinoa, beans, corn, and spices. Stuff into halved peppers. Place in slow cooker with tomato sauce. Cook on low 4 hours.

Mushroom Barley Risotto

  • Ingredients: pearl barley, mushrooms, vegetable broth, garlic, onion, thyme, Parmesan cheese
  • Instructions: Combine barley, mushrooms, broth, and aromatics in slow cooker. Cook on high 3-4 hours. Stir in cheese before serving.

Sweet Potato & Black Bean Chili

  • Ingredients: diced sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes, onion, chili powder, cumin, garlic
  • Instructions: Add all ingredients to slow cooker. Cook on low 6-7 hours. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Asparagus & Pea Risotto

  • Ingredients: Arborio rice, asparagus, peas, vegetable broth, white wine, shallots, Parmesan
  • Instructions: Combine rice, broth, wine, shallots in slow cooker. Cook on low 3 hours. Add asparagus and peas last 30 minutes.

Ratatouille

  • Ingredients: eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes, garlic, onion, herbs de Provence
  • Instructions: Layer vegetables and herbs in slow cooker. Cook on low 6 hours. Serve warm.

Kale, White Bean & Tomato Stew

  • Ingredients: kale, cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, garlic, onion, smoked paprika
  • Instructions: Combine all ingredients. Cook on low 6 hours. Stir occasionally.

Spring Pea & Mint Soup

  • Ingredients: fresh peas, vegetable broth, onion, mint leaves, lemon juice, cream
  • Instructions: Cook peas, onion, broth in slow cooker 4 hours. Blend with mint and lemon juice. Stir in cream before serving.

Chickpea & Spinach Stew

  • Ingredients: chickpeas, spinach, tomatoes, garlic, cumin, coriander
  • Instructions: Combine ingredients and cook on low 5 hours. Add spinach last 15 minutes.

Artichoke & Potato Casserole

  • Ingredients: baby potatoes, artichoke hearts, garlic, cream, Parmesan cheese, thyme
  • Instructions: Layer potatoes and artichokes. Pour in cream and sprinkle cheese. Cook on low 6 hours.

Lentil & Beetroot Salad (Slow Cooker Roasted Beets)

  • Ingredients: beets, green lentils, arugula, goat cheese, walnuts, balsamic vinegar
  • Instructions: Roast beets in slow cooker 6 hours. Cook lentils separately. Toss all ingredients before serving.

Thai Peanut Tofu Stew

  • Ingredients: tofu, peanut butter, coconut milk, sweet potatoes, garlic, ginger, lime juice
  • Instructions: Combine all except tofu. Cook on low 5 hours. Add tofu last 30 minutes.

Spring Vegetable Lasagna

  • Ingredients: lasagna noodles, ricotta, spinach, asparagus, peas, marinara sauce, mozzarella
  • Instructions: Layer noodles, vegetables, cheeses, and sauce in slow cooker. Cook on low 4 hours.

Moroccan Chickpea Stew

  • Ingredients: chickpeas, carrots, tomatoes, onion, cumin, cinnamon, coriander
  • Instructions: Combine all ingredients. Cook on low 7 hours. Garnish with cilantro.

Zucchini & Tomato Gratin

  • Ingredients: zucchini, tomatoes, garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, basil
  • Instructions: Layer vegetables and toppings. Cook on low 4 hours.

Minestrone with Spring Greens

  • Ingredients: kidney beans, pasta, spinach, spring greens, carrots, celery, tomatoes
  • Instructions: Cook all except pasta on low 6 hours. Add pasta last 15 minutes.

Slow Cooker Ratatouille Stuffed Eggplant

  • Ingredients: eggplants, zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes, garlic, herbs de Provence
  • Instructions: Hollow eggplants and stuff with ratatouille mix. Cook on low 5 hours.

Spring Vegetable Chili

  • Ingredients: kidney beans, corn, bell peppers, tomatoes, onion, chili powder
  • Instructions: Combine all ingredients. Cook on low 6 hours.

Coconut Curry Lentils

  • Ingredients: red lentils, coconut milk, curry powder, garlic, ginger, spinach
  • Instructions: Cook lentils, spices, and coconut milk 5 hours low. Add spinach last 10 minutes.

Spring Herb Polenta Casserole

  • Ingredients: polenta, vegetable broth, ricotta, parsley, basil, peas
  • Instructions: Cook polenta in slow cooker, layering herbs and peas towards the end.

Sweet Potato & Kale Stew

  • Ingredients: sweet potatoes, kale, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, smoked paprika
  • Instructions: Layer all ingredients. Cook on low 6 hours.

Spring Vegetable Tagine

  • Ingredients: carrots, turnips, zucchini, chickpeas, dried apricots, cinnamon, cumin
  • Instructions: Combine all. Cook on low 6-7 hours.

Mushroom Stroganoff

  • Ingredients: mushrooms, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, sour cream, paprika, noodles
  • Instructions: Cook mushrooms and broth 5 hours. Stir in sour cream and serve over noodles.

Spring Veggie & Bean Burrito Bowl

  • Ingredients: black beans, corn, bell peppers, brown rice, cumin, lime juice
  • Instructions: Cook beans, veggies, and rice in slow cooker 6 hours. Finish with lime juice.

Pea & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

  • Ingredients: pasta shells, ricotta, peas, marinara sauce, basil
  • Instructions: Stuff shells with ricotta and peas. Layer with sauce in slow cooker. Cook 4 hours low.

Slow Cooker Vegetable Biryani

  • Ingredients: basmati rice, mixed vegetables, yogurt, spices, cilantro
  • Instructions: Combine all ingredients. Cook on low 4 hours. Garnish with cilantro.

Carrot & Ginger Soup

  • Ingredients: carrots, ginger, onion, vegetable broth, coconut milk
  • Instructions: Cook carrots, ginger, and broth 5 hours. Blend and stir in coconut milk.

Spinach & Feta Stuffed Peppers

  • Ingredients: bell peppers, spinach, feta cheese, rice, garlic
  • Instructions: Mix spinach, feta, and rice. Stuff peppers and cook on low 4 hours.

Spring Vegetable & Barley Soup

  • Ingredients: barley, carrots, peas, celery, onion, vegetable broth
  • Instructions: Combine all and cook 6 hours low.

Butternut Squash & Chickpea Stew

  • Ingredients: butternut squash, chickpeas, onion, garlic, cumin, tomatoes
  • Instructions: Combine ingredients. Cook on low 6 hours.

Spring Vegetable & Tofu Curry

  • Ingredients: tofu, green beans, peas, coconut milk, curry powder, garlic
  • Instructions: Cook all except tofu 5 hours. Add tofu last 30 minutes.

Lentil & Spinach Dal

  • Ingredients: red lentils, spinach, garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin
  • Instructions: Combine all and cook 5 hours low.

Asparagus & Mushroom Stroganoff

  • Ingredients: asparagus, mushrooms, onion, garlic, sour cream, vegetable broth
  • Instructions: Cook mushrooms and broth 5 hours. Add asparagus last 30 minutes. Stir in sour cream.

Roasted Spring Vegetable Medley

  • Ingredients: carrots, parsnips, radishes, new potatoes, olive oil, rosemary
  • Instructions: Toss vegetables with oil and herbs. Cook on low 6 hours.

Spinach & Artichoke Dip

  • Ingredients: spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, sour cream, garlic, Parmesan
  • Instructions: Combine all in slow cooker. Heat on low 2 hours. Serve warm with bread or crackers.

Conclusion

These 37 vegetarian slow cooker recipes for spring are a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients and effortless cooking. By embracing seasonal produce and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy flavorful, nutritious meals with minimal fuss.

Whether you’re looking for comforting stews, vibrant curries, or hearty casseroles, this collection offers something for every palate.

Slow cooking allows the natural flavors to develop beautifully, making these dishes perfect for busy days, family dinners, or meal prepping ahead. Don’t hesitate to personalize the recipes with your favorite vegetables and spices.

For more inspiration on creative cooking, explore our Breakfast Wellington Recipe or dive into the rich flavors of the Braised Pork Ribs With Radish Recipe. Happy cooking this spring!

📖 Recipe Card: 37 Vegetarian Slow Cooker Recipes for Spring

Description: A curated collection of wholesome and flavorful vegetarian slow cooker recipes perfect for spring. Enjoy easy, healthy meals that require minimal prep and cook all day to develop rich flavors.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT6H
Total Time: PT6H20M

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cups diced carrots
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 cup chopped green beans
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups fresh spinach

Instructions

  1. Add carrots, celery, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
  2. Pour in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth.
  3. Stir in chickpeas, green beans, thyme, and basil.
  4. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
  6. Stir in fresh spinach 10 minutes before serving.
  7. Serve warm with crusty bread or rice.

Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 10 g | Fat: 3 g | Carbs: 40 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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