The days are getting shorter ... and colder! You don't have to resort to canned cream of mushroom soup to prepare a hearty meal in your slow cooker. There are healthy recipes to be had and precious time to be saved.

You can't go wrong with Crock Pot Black Bean Chili -- beans for protein and fiber, peppers for vitamin C, and herbs and spices for all of their numerous health benefits.

Crockpot Chicken Curry is loaded with zesty flavors, from fresh gingerroot and mango chutney to crushed red pepper and cilantro. This one could be -- dare I say it? -- company food. Serve it over brown rice.

For some fine French fare, Three Bean Cassoulet fits the bill, and it's healthy to boot. Legumes times three!

You may have noticed that I like vegetarian dishes done in the slow cooker. It's an easy way to eat veggies, and the legumes always come out perfectly. So try this Squash, Chick Pea and Red Lentil Stew; it's North African inspired -- a little sweet, somewhat spicy and definitely hearty.

Greek Chicken and Vegetable Ragout is a mix of wholesome veggies, lean chicken and that lemony Greek sauce that makes my mouth water just writing about it.

Whole foods make up all of these slow cooker recipes. You can use your slow cooker, save time preparing your meals, and still stick to your healthy lifestyle. Steer clear of the canned soup aisle in the supermarket and make no compromises!