Healthy Mexican-Inspired Whey Protein & Asparagus Stew
What Started it all:
Whey Protein, Asparagus, canned vegetables, slow cooker
This delicious and nutritious Mexican-inspired stew is perfect for a family meal. Packed with protein and veggies, it's easy to prepare in a slow cooker, making it an ideal option for busy days. Enjoy the freshness of asparagus and the convenience of canned vegetables in a hearty, flavorful dish.
Ingredients
- 1 scoop whey protein
- 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cans of mixed vegetables (preferably low sodium)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (preferably low sodium)
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Set your slow cooker to low heat and let it preheat while you prepare the ingredients.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they are soft and fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the slow cooker. Then, add the asparagus, mixed vegetables, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and jalapeño (if using).
- Season: Sprinkle the cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder over the mixture. Pour in the vegetable broth and stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Add Whey Protein: About 30 minutes before serving, mix the whey protein with a small amount of the hot broth to dissolve it, then stir it into the stew. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
This healthy Mexican-inspired stew is a wonderful way to enjoy a nutritious, protein-packed meal with your family. The slow cooker does most of the work, so you can focus on spending time with your loved ones. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients in every bite!