Slow Cooker Diced Tomatoes & Peppers

Description

Slow Cooker Diced Tomatoes & Peppers is a simple, flavorful recipe that transforms fresh vegetables into a rich and versatile dish perfect for serving over pasta, rice, grilled meats, or crusty bread. Slow cooking allows the tomatoes and peppers to soften and release their natural sweetness while garlic, herbs, and seasonings create a savory, comforting flavor. This easy recipe requires minimal preparation and is ideal for meal prep, busy weeknights, or preserving an abundance of fresh vegetables. The result is a hearty tomato mixture that can be used as a side dish, sauce, topping, or base for countless meals.

Ingredients For the Slow Cooker Mixture

• 6 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
• 2 red bell peppers, diced
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Seasoning

• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp sugar (optional)

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Fresh basil leaves

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Wash the tomatoes and peppers thoroughly. Dice them into small, even-sized pieces. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Load the Slow Cooker

Add the diced tomatoes, peppers, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Add the Oil

Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the vegetables.

Step 4: Season

Sprinkle oregano, basil, paprika, salt, black pepper, and sugar if using over the mixture.

Step 5: Stir

Gently stir everything together to evenly distribute the seasonings.

Step 6: Start Cooking

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 2½–3 hours.

Step 7: Check the Texture

As the vegetables cook, they will release liquid and become tender. Stir once or twice if desired.

Step 8: Reduce Excess Liquid

If the mixture seems too watery, remove the lid during the final 30 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.

Step 9: Taste and Adjust

Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 10: Finish

Turn off the slow cooker and allow the mixture to rest for 5 minutes.

Step 11: Garnish

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and basil before serving.

Step 12: Serve

Serve warm over pasta, rice, baked potatoes, grilled chicken, fish, or toasted bread.

Tips & Notes

• Roma tomatoes work especially well because they contain less water.
• Fresh herbs can be added during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
• Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra vegetables.
• A pinch of red pepper flakes adds gentle heat.
• This recipe can be blended into a smooth sauce if desired.

Q&A

Can I use canned tomatoes?

Yes. Substitute fresh tomatoes with two 28-ounce cans of diced tomatoes.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Absolutely. Allow it to cool completely and freeze for up to 3 months.

How long will leftovers last?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

What can I serve it with?

It pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, chicken, seafood, eggs, or crusty bread.

Servings

6 servings

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 85
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 410mg

Slow Cooker Diced Tomatoes & Peppers is an easy, wholesome recipe that highlights the natural sweetness and flavor of fresh vegetables. Whether used as a side dish, topping, or sauce, this versatile slow-cooked mixture adds rich flavor and vibrant color to countless meals. With simple ingredients and effortless preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.