40+ Fresh & Easy Summer Slow Cooker Recipes

As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, summer beckons us to gather around the table with friends and family. The vibrant season is not just about soaking in the sun; it’s also about enjoying the fresh flavors that summer has to offer. A slow cooker is the perfect companion for effortless meal preparation, allowing you to create mouthwatering dishes without spending hours in the kitchen. This article presents a collection of delightful summer recipes, each designed to highlight the vibrant flavors of the season while ensuring a hassle-free cooking experience. From refreshing soups to succulent meats and sweet desserts, these recipes will make your summer gatherings unforgettable.

40+ Fresh & Easy Summer Slow Cooker Recipes

Transform your summer meals with this collection of delicious slow cooker recipes perfect for any occasion! Enjoy the rich flavors of Sun-Kissed Tomato Basil Soup, or fire up your taste buds with Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken. Add a refreshing Tropical Pineapple Salsa and Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes for a complete spread. Finish off with Sweet and Spicy BBQ Ribs and a light Fresh Corn and Black Bean Salad. Don't forget dessert with a warm Peach Cobbler Delight! Each dish is easy to prepare and sure to impress. Discover your new favorite summer recipes today!

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Ingredients

2 lbs ripe tomatoes, chopped

1 medium onion, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups vegetable broth

1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1/4 cup olive oil

2 lemons (zest and juice)

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp dried thyme

1 tsp dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

1 ripe pineapple, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1/2 red onion, finely chopped

1 jalapeño, seeded and minced

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Juice of 2 limes

Salt to taste

3 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed

1 cup chicken or vegetable broth

1/2 cup milk

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup butter, diced

Salt and pepper to taste

3 lbs pork ribs

1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1/4 cup honey

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

4 ears corn, kernels removed

1 can black beans, drained and rinsed

1 red bell pepper, diced

1/2 red onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup fresh lime juice

1/4 cup olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

4 cups fresh peaches, sliced

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 tsp cinnamon

1/4 tsp nutmeg

1/2 cup butter, melted

1 cup milk

1 cup brown sugar

2 cups zucchini, sliced

2 cups bell peppers, chopped

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup green beans, trimmed

1/4 cup olive oil

1 tbsp Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups rolled oats

4 cups water or almond milk

2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

1/4 cup maple syrup

1 tsp vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

4 boneless chicken thighs

1 packet taco seasoning

1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 avocado, diced

1 lime, juiced

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Corn tortillas for serving

Instructions

Place chopped tomatoes, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker.

Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.

Blend the soup using an immersion blender until smooth.

Stir in fresh basil and heavy cream (if using) before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes | Servings: 4

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Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken 🍋🐔

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the marinade over them.

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until fully cooked.

Serve with rice or a side salad.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 6-8 hours | Servings: 4

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Tropical Pineapple Salsa 🌺🍍

Combine diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro in the slow cooker.

Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and add salt.

Toss to combine, cover, and cook on low for 2-3 hours to let the flavors meld.

Serve with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 3 hours | Servings: 6

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Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes 🥔🧄

Place potatoes and garlic in the slow cooker.

Add broth, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours until tender.

Mash potatoes with a potato masher or mixer, adding milk and butter until creamy.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes | Servings: 6

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Sweet and Spicy BBQ Ribs 🌶️🍖

In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.

Rub ribs with salt and pepper, then place in the slow cooker.

Pour the sauce mixture over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated.

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until tender.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes | Servings: 4-6

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Fresh Corn and Black Bean Salad 🌽🎉

Combine corn, black beans, red bell pepper, and onion in the slow cooker.

In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Pour dressing over the salad mixture and toss to coat.

Cover and let it sit on low for 2 hours before serving to enhance the flavors.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours | Servings: 6

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Peach Cobbler Delight 🍑🥧

In a large bowl, combine peaches, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Spread the peach mixture evenly in the bottom of the slow cooker.

In another bowl, mix melted butter, milk, and brown sugar until smooth, then pour over the peaches (do not stir).

Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, until bubbling and golden.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 5 hours | Servings: 8

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Herb-Infused Summer Vegetables 🥦🌽

Place all vegetables in the slow cooker.

Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat.

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the vegetables are tender but not mushy.