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.

Are you all getting that I love quinoa yet? Well, why wouldn't I, when it is such a healthy source of protein, is versatile and very easy to prepare.

My latest quinoa recipe find is Black Bean and Tomato Quinoa, touted as a side dish on Epicurious, but to me, a perfect vegetarian entree when served with a green salad and some whole grain bread.

This flavorful dish sports quinoa and black beans as hearty and nutritious sources of protein, zesty lime, the powerhouse tomato and scallions and fresh cilantro.

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