Looking for a fast, tasty dinner? Try this Sausage and Veggie Skillet! It’s not just quick to cook; it’s full of flavor and nutrition too. With just a few easy steps, you’ll have a colorful meal ready in no time. Let’s dive into the ingredients and make your kitchen the place to be for a delicious dish everyone will love!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound Italian chicken or turkey sausage, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, diced
– 1 small red onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Oils
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garnish
– Fresh parsley, chopped
When I make this sausage and veggie skillet, I love how vibrant the colors are. The red and yellow bell peppers add a sweet crunch. The zucchini brings a nice texture. Each bite is full of flavor and nutrition.
Using Italian chicken or turkey sausage gives the dish a great taste. You can also choose spicy sausage if you like heat. The garlic and onion create a rich base for the meal. Dried oregano and smoked paprika add depth.
I always use fresh parsley as a garnish. It not only looks pretty but also brightens the dish. This meal is quick, easy, and full of good ingredients. You can find the Full Recipe at the top of this article for step-by-step details!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
– Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
– Slice sausage and prepare vegetables.
First, pour the olive oil into your skillet. Make sure it’s hot before adding the sausage. While the oil heats, slice your sausage into rounds. You can use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option. Next, chop your veggies. Slice the red and yellow bell peppers, and dice the zucchini and onion. Mince the garlic as well. This prep will make cooking easier and faster.
Cooking Steps
– Brown sausage in the skillet for 5-7 minutes.
– Sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
– Add bell peppers and zucchini, cooking until tender.
Now, add the sliced sausage to the hot skillet. Cook it until it turns brown, about 5 to 7 minutes. You want those nice, golden edges. Once the sausage is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes. They should become soft and see-through. After that, add the sliced bell peppers and diced zucchini. Stir and cook these veggies for 5-7 minutes until they soften up.
Combining Ingredients
– Return sausage to the skillet and mix.
– Season with oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
– Continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.
Next, put the sausage back into the skillet. Mix it with the veggies. This is where the magic happens! Season your dish with dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well and let it cook for another 3-4 minutes. This will blend all the flavors together perfectly. For the full recipe, refer to the initial list of steps.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– Use a non-stick skillet for easier cleanup.
– Avoid overcrowding the pan for even cooking.
Using a non-stick skillet helps food slide out easily. It also makes cleaning quick and simple. When you overcrowd the pan, food steams instead of browns. This can lead to soggy veggies and uneven cooking. Cook in batches if needed.
Flavor Enhancements
– Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
– Incorporate other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
Balsamic vinegar adds a nice tang. Just a small splash can elevate the dish. You can also mix in spinach for some green goodness or mushrooms for a savory touch. Feel free to experiment with other veggies too!
Presentation Tips
– Drizzle with extra olive oil before serving.
– Serve directly in the skillet or plated for guests.
A drizzle of olive oil gives the dish a glossy finish. It also adds richness. You can serve it right from the skillet for a casual feel. Or, plate it nicely for a more formal dinner. Either way, it looks great!
Variations
Different Sausage Options
You can easily mix up the sausage in this dish. If you like heat, try spicy sausage. It adds a nice kick to the meal. For a lighter choice, consider plant-based sausage. It gives a great flavor without meat. This way, both meat lovers and vegetarians can enjoy it!
Vegetable Substitutions
Feel free to swap the zucchini for other veggies. Asparagus or broccoli work well too. They not only taste great but also add more color. You can also add seasonal vegetables. Fresh peas or bell peppers can brighten the dish. This keeps your meal exciting and fresh.
Serving Suggestions
To make this dish a complete meal, serve it over rice or quinoa. Both options soak up the flavors nicely. If you want something crunchier, pair it with crusty bread. A side salad also works well for a refreshing touch. These options make your meal more filling and satisfying.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps them fresh and tasty. When you want to enjoy them later, just take them out and heat them up.
Freezing
Freeze in individual portions for easy future meals. This lets you enjoy a quick dish anytime. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. It makes the reheating smooth and keeps everything juicy.
Reheating Tips
Reheat in the skillet with a splash of water or broth. This helps the dish not dry out. You can also heat it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes on high. This is fast and still keeps the flavors bright.
FAQs
How do I adjust the cooking time for different ingredients?
Cooking times may vary based on the size and type of your ingredients. For example, if you use thicker sausage or larger veggie pieces, they may need more time. Always check if everything is cooked through. The best way to know is to cut into the sausage and check if it’s no longer pink. Keep stirring so nothing burns.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead. Chop the veggies and slice the sausage, then store them in the fridge. When you are ready to eat, just cook them together in the skillet. This saves time and makes dinner easy.
What sides go well with Sausage and Veggie Skillet?
Recommended sides include a garden salad or garlic bread. A fresh salad adds crunch and lightness. Garlic bread can soak up the tasty juices from the skillet. You can also serve it over rice or pasta for a filling meal. Enjoy pairing these sides to make your meal more fun!
This dish combines savory sausage with fresh veggies for a tasty meal. Start by cooking your ingredients step-by-step, adding simple seasonings for flavor. Use easy storage tips for leftovers, ensuring you enjoy your skillet dish later. Remember, you can customize it based on your taste. Whether you opt for different sausages or vegetables, the options are endless. Get creative and make it your own. Enjoy cooking and share this flavorful experience with others.
