3 Delicious Crock Pot Recipes with Corn, Beans, and Peas

The humble slow cooker, or as it's commonly called, the crock pot, is a kitchen staple for many reasons. It's energy-efficient, time-saving, and incredibly versatile. Today, let's explore the magical trio of ingredients: corn, beans, and peas. These legumes and veggies not only bring a delightful flavor to your meals but also pack a punch of nutrition. From vibrant side dishes to hearty main courses, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking to add more plant-based foods to their diet. Here are three delicious crock pot recipes featuring corn, beans, and peas that will revolutionize your meal prep.

Slow-Cooked Succotash

Succotash is a classic American side dish that traditionally includes corn, lima beans, and sometimes tomatoes. Here, we’ll give it a modern twist by using a slow cooker for an easier, more flavorful result.

• 2 cups fresh or frozen lima beans
• 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients except for the butter or oil in your slow cooker. Stir well to ensure everything is mixed.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender.
3. If desired, stir in butter or olive oil just before serving for richness. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Additional Notes:

🍽 Note: This succotash can be served as a side dish or a light lunch with some crusty bread. You can also add diced cooked ham for a non-vegetarian version.

Black-Eyed Pea and Corn Salsa

Refreshing, spicy, and incredibly versatile, this salsa can serve as a party dip, a topping for tacos, or even a base for a quick weeknight salad.

• 1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1/2 cup canned or frozen peas
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
• 2 limes, juiced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt to taste
• Tortilla chips for serving

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients except tortilla chips in your crock pot.
2. Cook on low for 2 hours to allow flavors to meld, stirring occasionally.
3. Serve warm or at room temperature with tortilla chips or use as a topping.

Additional Notes:

🧐 Note: For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce or more jalapeños. This salsa gets even better if made ahead and refrigerated.

Three Bean and Corn Chili

This hearty, nutrient-dense chili is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for any occasion, be it a tailgate party or a cozy night in.

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (15 oz) navy beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup fresh or frozen green peas
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 pound ground turkey or beef, cooked and drained

Instructions:

1. If using meat, cook it separately until browned, then drain. Set aside.
2. Add all ingredients, including the meat if using, to the slow cooker.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and additional chili powder if desired.

To wrap it up, these crock pot recipes are a great way to incorporate more veggies and legumes into your diet without much effort. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing flavors to meld together perfectly while you go about your day. Corn, beans, and peas aren't just great for their taste; they also contribute significantly to your fiber, protein, and vitamin intake. From a simple succotash to a zesty salsa and a comforting chili, these recipes are sure to become part of your regular meal rotation, offering both flavor and nutrition in abundance. Remember, the slow cooker can make your meal preparation easier and your life a bit more relaxed.

Can I use frozen vegetables in these recipes?

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Absolutely! Frozen vegetables work just as well in slow cooker recipes. They can actually enhance the dish’s flavor as they release moisture while cooking.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the chili?

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To adjust the spiciness, you can increase or decrease the amount of chili powder or add cayenne pepper. For less heat, remove the seeds from chili peppers before adding them.

Are these recipes suitable for meal prep?

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Yes, these crock pot recipes are excellent for meal prep. They can be made in large batches, stored in the refrigerator, or frozen for later use. They often taste better reheated as the flavors continue to develop.