Skillet Sausage and Zucchini

If you’re looking for a quick and healthy meal, look no further than this Skillet Sausage and Zucchini recipe. Perfectly seasoned with herbs and served in a colorful mix of fresh vegetables, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With its delightful flavors and nutritious ingredients, it’s a dish that brings joy to any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: This meal takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy schedules.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with zucchini, peppers, and onions, this dish provides essential vitamins and minerals.
• Versatile Flavor: The blend of spices complements the savory sausage and fresh veggies beautifully, making each bite satisfying.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Whole30 Compliant: This recipe fits well within Whole30 guidelines, allowing you to enjoy delicious food while staying on track.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A sturdy skillet allows for even cooking and browning, which enhances flavor.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, ensuring precision and safety.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting through veggies effortless, saving you time in preparation.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Skillet Sausage and Zucchini, you will need the following ingredients:

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)

Spices and Seasoning

• 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

Other Ingredients

• 1 tsp garlic (minced)
• Fresh basil (for garnish – optional)

How to Make Skillet Sausage and Zucchini

Step 1: Heat the Skillet

Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

When the oil is hot:
1. Add chopped sausage to the skillet.
2. Sauté for a few minutes until sausage slices are browned.
3. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

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

Step 4: Sauté Until Tender

Cook until onions are translucent and peppers plus zucchini are nearly tender—about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add sausage back into the skillet along with minced garlic:
1. Stir everything together.
2. Cover to allow flavors to meld for a few minutes.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Enjoy your delicious Skillet Sausage and Zucchini as a wholesome meal that’s both quick to prepare and packed with flavor!

How to Serve Skillet Sausage and Zucchini

Serving Skillet Sausage and Zucchini is a delightful experience that can be customized in many ways. Whether you want a hearty meal or a light side dish, this recipe can adapt to fit your dining needs.

Pair with Whole Grains

• Quinoa: This nutty grain adds protein and fiber, making your meal even more satisfying.
• Brown Rice: A classic pairing that complements the flavors of the sausage and veggies perfectly.
• Barley: Its chewy texture contrasts nicely with the tender zucchini and sausage.

Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: Toss together fresh greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Cucumber Salad: Cool, crunchy cucumbers mixed with dill and lemon make an excellent side.

Fresh Herbs

• Basil Garnish: Sprinkle fresh basil over the dish right before serving for added color and flavor.
• Chopped Parsley: This bright herb adds freshness and enhances presentation.

How to Perfect Skillet Sausage and Zucchini

To ensure your Skillet Sausage and Zucchini turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Bold Flavors: Use high-quality sausages for rich flavor; they greatly enhance the dish’s overall taste.
• Uniform Cuts: Cut vegetables into similar sizes to ensure even cooking throughout the skillet.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if needed, allowing each ingredient enough space to brown properly.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; adding salt or spices gradually helps find the perfect balance.

Best Side Dishes for Skillet Sausage and Zucchini

Enhancing your meal with side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside, warm on the inside—perfect for soaking up any juices from your skillet dish.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned and crispy roasted potatoes make a hearty companion to Skillet Sausage and Zucchini.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients while keeping your meal light.
4. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that absorbs flavors well while adding texture.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs beautifully with savory sausage, adding a touch of sweetness to your plate.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These can be filled with grains or beans for an extra layer of flavor complementing the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Skillet Sausage and Zucchini experience even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using raw sausage: Always use fully cooked sausage for this recipe. This avoids undercooked meat and ensures safety.
• Cutting vegetables unevenly: Ensure that zucchini, onion, and bell pepper pieces are similar in size. This helps them cook evenly and enhances texture.
• Overcrowding the skillet: If your skillet is too crowded, the vegetables may steam instead of sauté. Cook in batches if necessary to get that nice browning.
• Neglecting seasoning: Don’t skip the spices! Proper seasoning elevates the flavor of your dish. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
• Not allowing time for browning: Browning the sausage adds depth of flavor. Be patient and let it develop a nice color before moving on.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Skillet Sausage and Zucchini

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to keep it fresh for up to 2 months.

Reheating Skillet Sausage and Zucchini

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Skillet Sausage and Zucchini:

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with chicken, turkey, or beef sausages for varied flavors.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace the sausage with plant-based sausage alternatives. Adjust cooking times as needed.

What can I serve with Skillet Sausage and Zucchini?

This dish pairs well with quinoa, rice, or even a simple side salad for a complete meal.

Is Skillet Sausage and Zucchini suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep because it reheats well and can easily be stored.

Final Thoughts

This Skillet Sausage and Zucchini recipe is not only quick but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste. Try it today for a healthy meal that satisfies!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Skillet Sausage and Zucchini

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Enjoy this easy Skillet Sausage and Zucchini recipe—a healthy meal ready in just 20 minutes! Try it tonight for delicious flavors!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 medium zucchinis (cubed)
• 1 onion (cut into ¾-inch pieces)
• 1 bell pepper (any color, cut into ¾-inch pieces)
• 4 fully cooked sausages (sliced into circles ¼-inch thick)
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried basil
• ¼ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 ½ tbsp olive or avocado oil
• 1 tsp garlic (minced)
• Fresh basil (for garnish – optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped sausage and sauté until browned. Remove from the pan.
3. Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining oil along with zucchini, onion, and bell pepper.
4. Season with oregano, garlic powder, basil, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Cook until vegetables are tender (about 5 minutes).
6. Return the sausage to the skillet with minced garlic; stir to combine.
7. Cover and let flavors meld for a few minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 60mg