It's Friday! If you're like me, you're looking for end-of-week easy. So pull out the crockpot or slowcooker. It's time for easy crockpot recipe ideas. Every Friday I'll offer up one for meat-lovers and one for vegetarians. You choose the option that fits your mood and what you've got on hand. Less than 10 minutes to prep and you'll come home to a ready-to-eat dinner:

  • Chicken: Crockpot Italiano (uses boneless chicken breast)

This recipe is also delicious with beef -- if you have a cut of beef on hand instead of chicken, feel free to use it instead. Or bone-in chicken works just fine too. If you're using a 2-3 lb. roast, cook on HI for several hours first or extend the total cooking time to 8-9 hours.

  • Tofu: Crockpot Italiano (uses one pound of tofu)

This recipe works quite well with tempeh or even a can of chickpeas. If using tempeh, cut into 3 or 4 pieces and use in place of the tofu. If adding chickpeas, drain and rinse one can and add to the crockpot with the other veggies. The cooking time won't change for either one.

 What's your favorite crockpot recipe idea for Friday?