I love tortilla soup and it’s hard to find a good vegetarian version when you’re out. So this is just another excuse to stay in and save some more money. Serve it with a salad topped with black beans, green chilies, and salsa to make a complete meal.

Slow Cooker Meatless Tortilla Soup (*gluten-free)

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 – 8  hours

• 1 Tb olive oil
• 1 medium onions, minced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 28 oz. organic tomatoes (diced, crushed, or whole)
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 4 cups filtered water
• 1 tsp pepper
• 1/2 lime, juiced
• 1 Tb cilantro, chopped
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 avocado, chopped
• 1/4 cup tequila

The night before: Chop onions and mince the garlic. How easy is that for prep work? Optional: Saute in olive oil then store in fridge until tomorrow.

In the morning: Add everything but the avocado and tequila. Cook on low for 6 – 8 hours. About a half hour or so before serving, stir in lime juice, tequila, and adjust . Puree with an immersion blender.

Chop avocado and toss with extra lime juice and a little chili powder.

Serve topped with fresh cilantro, avocado, and strips of *baked tortilla strips or *crushed chips.

* Make sure to get gluten-free tortillas or chips if you have a gluten allergy!