Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner idea? Look no further than this Sausage and Zucchini Skillet recipe! Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines the savory flavors of sausage with the fresh taste of zucchini, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a hearty dinner on the table in no time.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, according to preference)
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Slice the zucchinis into half-moons, dice the red bell pepper, chop the onion, and mince the garlic.
- Cook the Sausage:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Add the Zucchini and Bell Pepper:
- Add the sliced zucchini and diced red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.
- Combine and Season:
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
This Sausage and Zucchini Skillet is a balanced meal that’s high in protein and low in carbohydrates. Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: This skillet pairs perfectly with a side salad, garlic bread, or a serving of quinoa or rice.
- Wine Pairing: For an adult dinner, consider pairing this dish with a glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave on high for 1-2 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use a different type of sausage? Yes, you can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
- How long does it take to cook? This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
- Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or spinach.
This Sausage and Zucchini Skillet is a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that you’ll want to make again and again. It’s packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for any night of the week. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family!