Step 1: Prep the Ingredients - Start by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always best, so squeeze that lemon while you’re at it!
Step 2: Combine in the Slow Cooker - In your slow cooker, add the reduced-sodium vegetable broth, uncooked quinoa, chopped onion, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic. Stir to combine all the ingredients evenly.
Step 3: Set the Slow Cooker - Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 2 hours. This will allow the quinoa to soak up all the flavorful broth while cooking perfectly.
Step 4: Add the Spinach and Shrimp - After 2 hours, add the packed spinach and raw shrimp to the slow cooker. Gently stir to incorporate them into the quinoa mixture. Top with the butter, breaking it up into small pieces for even melting.
Step 5: Finish Cooking - Cover the slow cooker again and cook for an additional 30 minutes on low, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the spinach is wilted.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy! - Once done, give everything a gentle stir to combine. Serve warm, and enjoy the delicious flavors of garlic butter shrimp and quinoa!