I first discovered tagines—Moroccan stews—when my oldest son was a baby, and I've loved them ever since. I used a slow cooker for my first version and since I'm a mom with two active boys, that has stayed my preferred method. The pumpkin mixture is supposed to be thick, but if you like a thinner consistency, stir in chicken broth. —Necia Blundy, Bothell, Washington
With this recipe, you can put in a full day’s work, run some errands and still get dinner on the table in hardly any time. Make it extra-special by serving the meat sauce over spaetzle. —Cyndy Gerken, Naples, Florida
This pork hominy stew, also known as pozole, is a delicious southwestern delicacy. I moved it to the slow cooker so it can simmer away on its own. The rich, brothy soup is delicious, much like a tamale in a bowl. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Pomegranate molasses sauce is a bit tangy and sweet, and it adds a nice depth of flavor to sweet and savory dishes alike. Pomegranate molasses can be found in specialty food stores or online. —Shannon Sarna, South Orange, New Jersey
This recipe is perfect for those days when you’re craving something just a little bit different. It’s spicy, flavorful and a delightful excuse to open up a bar of chocolate—if you’re the type of person who needs an excuse! —Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia
This slow-cooker minestrone soup recipe offers all the comfort and deliciousness of a homemade soup. It's incredibly easy to make and requires very little attention once it's in the slow cooker. How's that for a great meal idea?
It's wonderful to come home to this pork bean soup dinner simmering away in a slow cooker, especially on a busy weeknight. This soup uses dried beans and is simple to throw together in the morning before work. When you get home, just add a few more ingredients, and in half an hour dinner is ready! Do not put the tomatoes in for the first 8 hours of cooking, or the beans will not become soft. —Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia
My daughter and I came up with this shrimp soup recipe when she was younger, and it's been a favorite with family and friends ever since. This sopa de camarones may even be tastier as leftovers the next day! —Patti Fair, Valdosta, Georgia
This is an easy five-ingredient drink to make for your guests for the holidays. Serve it hot or cold. —Courtney Stultz, Weir, Kansas
These carrots are yummy and so simple to make. The recipe is from my mom, who tweaked it a bit to suit her taste. You can make this dish a day in advance and refrigerate it until needed. Then just reheat it before serving! —Julie Puderbaugh, Berwick, Pennsylvania