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Crockpots, or slow cookers, have become essential kitchen appliances for many households, primarily due to their ability to simplify meal preparation. One of the primary advantages of using a crockpot is the convenience it offers. With just a few minutes of prep time, you can set your ingredients in the pot, turn it on, and let it do the work for you. This means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your day or attending to other responsibilities.

Crockpot Creamy Veggie Pasta

Discover the ultimate comfort food with the Crockpot Creamy Veggie Pasta Delight! This easy-to-make dish combines pasta and a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables in a rich, creamy sauce, perfect for busy families and health-conscious eaters. With minimal prep and slow-cooked flavors, it’s a nutritious meal that caters to various dietary preferences. Ideal for meal planning, whip up this delicious recipe and enjoy hearty, wholesome dinners with ease. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups uncooked penne pasta (or your choice of pasta shape)

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups diced bell peppers (a mix of red, yellow, and orange for color)

1 cup zucchini, sliced into half-moons

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup baby spinach leaves

1 can (15 oz) full-fat coconut milk

1 cup vegetable broth

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or use nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative)

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Ingredients: Thoroughly wash and chop the fresh vegetables. Dice the onion, mince the garlic cloves, slice the zucchini into half-moons, and halve the cherry tomatoes. Set aside.

    Layer the Crockpot: In the base of your crockpot, layer the diced onion, minced garlic, bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and baby spinach. Make sure to distribute the ingredients evenly across the bottom.

      Add Pasta & Liquids: Spread the uncooked penne pasta over the layered vegetables. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the coconut milk, vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and black pepper. Stir this mixture well and pour it over the pasta and vegetables in the crockpot.

        Mix It Up: Using a large spoon, gently stir all the ingredients together, ensuring that the pasta is as submerged in the liquid as possible. This helps in even cooking.

          Cook: Cover the crockpot with the lid, setting it to cook on low for about 4 hours or on high for 2 hours. This slow cooking allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.

            Check for Doneness: After the cooking time has elapsed, check the pasta for doneness. It should be tender but not mushy. If it needs more time, cover and allow it to cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, checking periodically.

              Add Cheese: Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast) and stir until melted and fully incorporated. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if necessary.

                Serve: Use a ladle to portion out the creamy veggie pasta into bowls. Garnish each serving with fresh basil leaves to add an aromatic touch.

                  Enjoy: Serve hot and revel in the delightful combination of creamy textures and fresh flavors in this comforting dish!

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes | Servings: 6-8 servings

                      - Presentation Tips: For added flair, serve in colorful bowls and drizzle a little extra coconut milk on top before garnishing with basil. Add crushed red pepper flakes for a pop of color and spice!