Skillet Sausage and Zucchini
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, this Skillet Sausage and Zucchini is the perfect choice! Packed with flavor from hearty sausage and fresh vegetables, this dish delights any palate. It’s not just easy to prepare but also fits various dietary needs, being Whole30 compliant, gluten-free, and dairy-free. Enjoy it for dinner or as a healthy lunch option!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight meal.
- Healthy Ingredients: A wholesome mix of sausage and fresh veggies ensures a nutritious plate.
- Flavorful Experience: Seasoned with herbs like oregano and basil for depth of flavor.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or served over rice or quinoa for added carbs.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Great for batch cooking; store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing this Skillet Sausage and Zucchini requires minimal equipment. With just a few essential tools, you can whip up this tasty meal in no time!
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: The star of the show! A good skillet helps achieve that perfect sear on the sausage and veggies.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop your ingredients quickly and efficiently.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting through vegetables easier, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
Ingredients
For this Skillet Sausage and Zucchini recipe, you will need:
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchini (cubed)
- 1 onion (cut into ¾ inch pieces)
- 1 bell pepper (any color, cut into ¾-inch pieces)
Sausage
- 4 fully cooked sausages (sliced into circles ¼-inch thick)
Seasonings
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp pepper
- ½ tsp salt
Oils
- 2 ½ tbsp olive or avocado oil
Garnish
- fresh basil (for garnish – optional)
Additional Ingredient
- 1 tsp garlic (minced)
How to Make Skillet Sausage and Zucchini
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
When the oil is ready:
1. Add the chopped sausage to the skillet.
2. Sauté while flipping often for a few minutes until browned.
3. Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Reduce the heat to medium:
1. Pour in the remaining 1 ½ tablespoons of oil.
2. Add zucchini, onion, and bell pepper to the skillet.
3. Sprinkle with oregano, garlic powder, basil, onion powder, pepper, and salt. Stir well.
Step 4: Sauté Until Tender
Allow cooking:
– Let everything cook until the onion is translucent and zucchini are tender, about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the sausage to the skillet:
1. Add minced garlic to the mixture.
2. Stir well to combine all flavors.
3. Cover briefly so everything warms through.
4. Taste and add more salt if desired before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Skillet Sausage and Zucchini!
How to Serve Skillet Sausage and Zucchini
Serving Skillet Sausage and Zucchini is all about enhancing its flavors while keeping it simple. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways to suit your preferences.
Serve in a Bowl
- Serve the skillet sausage and zucchini in a bowl for a comforting presentation. Add a sprinkle of fresh basil on top for added flavor.
Pair with Rice
- This dish pairs beautifully with cooked rice, whether white, brown, or cauliflower rice. The rice absorbs the savory juices from the sausage and veggies.
Top with Cheese
- If you’re not strictly adhering to Whole30, consider topping your meal with shredded cheese. Mozzarella or parmesan adds a creamy touch that melts deliciously over the hot mixture.
Add a Side Salad
- A light side salad can complement this hearty dish well. Choose fresh greens with a simple vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Serve as Tacos
- For a fun twist, serve the mixture in corn or flour tortillas. Add your favorite toppings like avocado, salsa, or cilantro for extra flavor.
How to Perfect Skillet Sausage and Zucchini
To make sure your Skillet Sausage and Zucchini turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh zucchini and bell peppers will provide better flavor and texture than older vegetables.
- Control the Heat: Start with medium-high heat for browning the sausage, then lower it to medium when cooking the veggies to avoid burning.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning according to your preference during cooking for optimal flavor.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to include more vegetables such as mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition.
Best Side Dishes for Skillet Sausage and Zucchini
Complementing your Skillet Sausage and Zucchini with the right sides can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any juices left on your plate.
- Quinoa Salad: A nutritious option that blends well with the flavors of the sausage.
- Steamed Broccoli: Adds color and a crunch that balances the softness of the sautéed veggies.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness contrasts nicely with savory sausage.
- Couscous: Quick to prepare and absorbs flavors wonderfully.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness complements the richness of the dish.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing side that adds crunch and acidity, balancing out heartiness.
- Mashed Cauliflower: A low-carb alternative that provides creaminess without overwhelming calories.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Skillet Sausage and Zucchini can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s quality. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using the wrong sausage: Not all sausages are created equal! Choose fully cooked varieties for better flavor and texture.
- Overcrowding the skillet: If you pack too much into the pan, veggies won’t cook evenly. Work in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect browning.
- Ignoring seasoning: Seasoning is key! Don’t skip or skimp on herbs and spices; these add depth to your dish.
- Neglecting vegetable sizes: Cutting zucchini and peppers into uneven sizes can lead to inconsistent cooking. Aim for uniform pieces for even tenderness.
- Skipping the resting time: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes enhances flavors. Resist the urge to dig in immediately!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Skillet Sausage and Zucchini
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Portion out servings for easy thawing later.
Reheating Skillet Sausage and Zucchini
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, stirring between each interval.
- Stovetop: Use medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or oil if needed, and stir until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Skillet Sausage and Zucchini that might help you along your cooking journey.
Can I use different vegetables in Skillet Sausage and Zucchini?
Yes! Feel free to substitute with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach.
How do I make this dish without sausage?
You can replace sausage with plant-based proteins or tofu for a vegetarian version of Skillet Sausage and Zucchini.
What type of sausage works best?
Fully cooked sausage links, such as chicken or turkey sausage, work great. They provide excellent flavor without extra prep time.
Can I meal prep this recipe?
Absolutely! This dish stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prepping during busy weeks.
Final Thoughts
This Skillet Sausage and Zucchini is not only quick and easy but also wonderfully versatile. You can customize it with different veggies or herbs based on your preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy a healthy meal filled with flavor that will satisfy everyone at your table!
Skillet Sausage and Zucchini
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
If you’re seeking a quick and flavorful meal, Skillet Sausage and Zucchini is an excellent choice! This dish combines hearty sausage with fresh vegetables, making it a delightful option for any time of the day. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a healthy lunch. Whole30 compliant, gluten-free, and dairy-free, this recipe accommodates various dietary needs while delivering delicious taste. Pair it with rice or quinoa for a filling meal, or enjoy it on its own for a lighter option. The vibrant colors and rich flavors will please your palate and make mealtime enjoyable.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini (cubed)
- 1 onion (cut into ¾-inch pieces)
- 1 bell pepper (cut into ¾-inch pieces)
- 4 fully cooked sausages (sliced)
- Olive or avocado oil
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic (minced)
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sausage slices and sauté until browned. Remove from pan.
- In the same skillet, add remaining oil and vegetables. Season with spices; stir well.
- Cook until veggies are tender (about 5 minutes).
- Return sausage to the skillet along with minced garlic; stir to combine and warm through.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
