Skillet Sausage and Zucchini

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, this Skillet Sausage and Zucchini recipe is perfect! Ready in just 20 minutes, it combines savory sausage with fresh vegetables for a satisfying dish suitable for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Packed with flavor and nutrition, this recipe is gluten-free, dairy-free, and complies with Whole30 guidelines.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 20 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is ideal for those hectic days.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a delightful taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile: Adapt the veggies based on your preferences or what’s in season; this dish is great with any color bell pepper or even a mix of zucchini types.
• Healthy Ingredients: This skillet recipe uses wholesome components that are low in calories yet high in nutrients.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra servings to enjoy for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make the most of your cooking experience, gather these essential tools before starting. They will ensure you have everything you need at hand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A versatile cooking vessel that allows for even heat distribution, perfect for sautéing ingredients together.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and meats; essential for maintaining kitchen hygiene.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes prep work quicker and easier, ensuring clean cuts on vegetables and meat slices.
• Spatula: Ideal for flipping ingredients in the skillet without damaging them, ensuring an even cook.

Ingredients

If you want a healthy and satisfying meal in a rush! You will love this perfectly seasoned mixture of sausage, onions, zucchini, and peppers. Whole30 compliant, gluten-free and dairy-free.

For the Vegetables:

• 2 medium zucchini (cubed)
• 1 onion (cut into ¾ inch pieces)
• 1 bell pepper (any color, cut into ¾-inch pieces)

For the Sausage:

• 4 fully cooked sausages (sliced into circles ¼-inch thick)

For Seasoning:

• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried basil
• ¼ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp pepper
• ½ tsp salt

For Cooking:

• 2 ½ tbsp olive or avocado oil
• 1 tsp garlic (minced)
• Fresh basil (for garnish – optional)

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: Sauté the Sausage

• Add the chopped sausage to the skillet.
• Sauté the sausage slices, flipping often until browned (about a few minutes).
• Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

• Reduce heat to medium.
• Add remaining 1 ½ tablespoons of oil to the skillet along with the zucchini, onion, and bell pepper.
• Sprinkle with oregano, garlic powder, basil, onion powder, pepper, and salt. Stir well.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Let cook until onions are translucent and peppers and zucchini are nearly tender (about 5 minutes).

Step 5: Combine Everything

• Add the sausage back into the skillet along with minced garlic.
• Stir everything together. Cover briefly so flavors meld.
• Taste and adjust salt if necessary before serving.

Enjoy your Skillet Sausage and Zucchini as a delightful meal option that’s both simple and full of flavor!

How to Serve Skillet Sausage and Zucchini

This flavorful dish can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a more elaborate presentation, here are some serving suggestions.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh basil: Adding fresh basil on top gives a burst of flavor and color.
• Sprinkle with parsley: Chopped parsley provides a bright touch that complements the dish.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Serve over rice: The hearty mixture pairs well with fluffy white or brown rice, making it more filling.
• Quinoa option: For a protein-packed choice, serve it over quinoa, which adds a nutty flavor.

On a Bed of Greens

• Use spinach or kale: Serving it over sautéed spinach or kale makes for a nutritious base.
• Mixed greens salad: A light mixed greens salad adds crunch and freshness to your meal.

As Tacos

• Taco-style serving: Spoon the mixture into corn tortillas for a fun twist. Top with avocado and salsa for extra flavor.
• Lettuce wraps: Use large lettuce leaves for low-carb wraps filled with this savory mix.

How to Perfect Skillet Sausage and Zucchini

To make the most of your Skillet Sausage and Zucchini, consider these helpful tips for perfecting the dish.

• Use high-quality sausage: Choosing flavorful sausages will enhance the overall taste of your meal.
• Cut vegetables evenly: Ensuring that zucchini, onions, and peppers are cut to similar sizes promotes even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cooking in batches if necessary allows for better browning of the sausages.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Taste as you cook to find the perfect balance of spices and salt for your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Skillet Sausage and Zucchini

Pairing side dishes with your Skillet Sausage and Zucchini can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a comforting addition.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness complements the savory flavors of the main dish beautifully.
3. Steamed Broccoli: A simple side that adds crunch and nutrition without overpowering flavors.
4. Cauliflower Rice: Light and fluffy, cauliflower rice is an excellent low-carb substitute that absorbs flavors well.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad offers a cool contrast to the warm skillet dish.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Slightly charred asparagus adds a smoky flavor and pairs well with zucchini.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure you create a delicious Skillet Sausage and Zucchini, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the sausage can lead to a lack of flavor. Make sure to sauté the sausage until it’s nicely browned for added depth.
• Overcrowding the skillet: Adding too many ingredients at once can cause steaming rather than sautéing. Cook in batches if necessary for even cooking.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season well can make your dish bland. Use the recommended spices generously for maximum flavor.
• Cutting vegetables unevenly: Unevenly sized zucchini and peppers will cook at different rates. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Not tasting before serving: Forgetting to taste your dish can result in missing out on needed adjustments. Always sample before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Skillet Sausage and Zucchini

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Skillet Sausage and Zucchini

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm in a baking dish for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions readers often have about preparing Skillet Sausage and Zucchini.

How can I customize my Skillet Sausage and Zucchini?

You can add other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach. Feel free to experiment with different types of sausages or spices.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes! Fresh herbs can enhance flavor. Use them towards the end of cooking for the best results.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Skillet Sausage and Zucchini is great for meal prep, as it reheats well and maintains its flavor.

What type of sausage works best?

You can use chicken, turkey, or beef sausages based on your preference. Look for fully cooked options for convenience.

How do I make this dish more filling?

Serve it over rice or quinoa, or add beans to increase fiber and protein content.

Final Thoughts

This Skillet Sausage and Zucchini recipe is not only quick but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Its versatility allows you to customize with various veggies or proteins based on your preference. Give it a try for a healthy weeknight dinner option!