The slow cooker rocks. It’s the busy woman’s best friend in the kitchen. However, many people think of the crockpot as the appliance of stews and soups. Yet you can use it to prepare yummy, healthy recipes any time of year. Try these 21 slow cooker meals to beat the heat.

Use our summer slow cooker dishes to make your life easier. Load the ingredients in the morning, and you’re good-to-go with a healthy dinner when you walk in the door that evening. These meals are smart options, whether you’re spending the day at the office or visiting the local amusement park. What’s more, crockpot recipes are a comfier alternative to standing over a hot stove all afternoon.

Like all SkinnyMs. recipes, our slow cooker meal ideas are packed with foods that nourish the body. We’ve also included healthed-up versions of comfort food classics, like barbecue chicken recipes, which do double-duty as party foods—and, let’s face it, on some days it’s just too sultry to grill outside.