Vegetables are the stars of these flavorful slow-cooker recipes.

Plus, these tasty meals are meat-free, making them perfect for those following avegetarian eating pattern.

A garnish of fresh avocado and chopped cilantro is a nice touch.

Slow-Cooker Vegetable Minestrone Soup

PHOTOGRAPHER: JEN CAUSEY; FOOD STYLIST: AIL RAMEE; PROP STYLIST: CLAIRE SPOLLEN

The boost of flavor from maple syrup, apple-cider vinegar and spices makes all the difference!

Serve with: Garlic bread and a green salad.

Barley adds a chewiness to provide texture, while dried mushrooms lend an earthiness and depth.

Slow-Cooker Vegetable Minestrone Soup

PHOTOGRAPHER: JEN CAUSEY; FOOD STYLIST: AIL RAMEE; PROP STYLIST: CLAIRE SPOLLEN

Finishing with acidic lemon juice brightens the flavors.

Adding a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro just before serving brightens up the flavors.

The roasted red peppers, lemon, olives and feta add texture and flavor to this Mediterranean diet recipe.

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This particular bean breaks down beautifully, giving the dish its rich, creamy texture.

For a stovetop variation, see below.

Serve it over rice with Indian-style green chutney and a side of plain yogurt.

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Comforting spices like oregano and thyme build flavor, while Parmesan provides an irresistibly savory finish.

A sprinkle of dried fruit serves as a counterpoint to the warm curry spices.

Serve with brown rice or naan, if desired.

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You don’t need much pesto hereswirl in just enough to tint the broth and release its fresh-basil scent.

If you avoid cheese made with rennet, look for vegetarian Parmesan cheese, which is made without it.

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Slowcooker Bean Kale and Barley Soup in a ladle

PHOTOGRAPHER: JEN CAUSEY; FOOD STYLIST: AIL RAMEE; PROP STYLIST: CLAIRE SPOLLEN

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Slow-Cooker Mediterranean Quinoa with Arugula

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a recipe photo of the Kale White Bean Stew served in a bowl

Ali Redmond

a recipe photo of the Slow-Cooker Curried Sweet Potato & Cauliflower with Coconut & Cashews served in a bowl

Photographer: Greg DuPree, Food Stylist: Ali Ramee Prop Stylist: Christine Keely

a recipe photo of the Slow-Cooker Green Minestrone with Fennel & Parmesan

Photographer: Greg DuPree, Food Stylist: Ali Ramee Prop Stylist: Christine Keely