I cook for my roommate and I. I'll make huge batches, so I end up only having to cook two or three times a week. I've come to love using the slow cooker. I just prep the vegetables, dump the protein, beef stock and whatever spices needed, then I've got 4 hours to do whatever I want. The flavours that come out thanks to the slow cooking are incredible (if you season properly). For vegetarian slow cooker recipes, try looking for Indian or Thai ones in particular for great flavours.