It’s loaded with an array of nutritious vegetables and can go with a variety of sides, or enjoyed on its own for a low carb, one skillet dinner.
Why You’ll Love It
You’ll adore this Italian sausage and vegetable skillet recipe for its amazing flavors. Every bite is a delicious mix of savory sausage, tender-crisp vegetables, and a hint of heat from crushed red pepper. This dish is also a boon for health-conscious foodies. By using ingredients like olive oil, fresh vegetables, and the option of turkey or chicken sausage, you’re making a meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. The best part? It’s a quick 30-minute dinner that you can easily whip up for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredient Notes
Italian Sausage: We are using chicken Italian sausage for a healthier meal, but the same recipe also works great with pork sausage. If using links, remove the casing. Red Onion: Feel free to use any other variety you prefer. Mushrooms: White button or baby bella. Bell Peppers: Using multi-colored peppers not only makes the dish colorful and nutritious. Broccoli: Broccoli adds crunch and fiber. It’s best to cut it into small florets so they can cook quickly and evenly. Zucchini: Adds bulk and a soft texture. Yellow squash goes great too. Garlic: Always a must. Crushed Red Pepper: Adjust the amount according to your heat preference. Italian Seasoning: Feel free to use fresh herbs (think oregano, basil, thyme, parsley) if you have them. Remember, dried herbs are more potent, so use 2 tablespoons fresh in place of 2 teaspoons dried. Tomatoes: We are using campari, but other types will work as well.
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Brown Sausage: Heat up some olive oil in a skillet, then add the sausage, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Sauté Veggies: Add in all remaining ingredients except tomatoes. Cook, stirring frequently, until vegetables have softened to slightly firmer than your preferred doneness.
- Cook Tomatoes: Add tomatoes. Stir and cook for 4-5 minutes. Taste and adjust for salt and pepper. Done!
Variations
The same basic recipe can also be used with other proteins like chicken or shrimp. Just take note that the sausage adds a lot of flavor, so you might wish to increase the seasonings to compensate. Add or subtract vegetables as you wish. Green beans, spinach, carrots… the sky’s the limit. Want to change up the flavors? We went with an Italian theme today, but we’ve also made it with andouille sausage and Creole Seasoning in place of Italian. It’s great.
Serving Suggestions
We usually enjoy these sautéed sausage and veggies over pasta. Short shapes like penne, bowtie or rigatoni work best. The dish can also go with a variety of other starches like rice or some nice crusty bread. Watching carbs? No problem, you can easily enjoy it just as it is.
Leftovers and Storage
You can refrigerate leftovers for 3-4 days in an airtight container. Reheat in a lightly greased skillet, or in the microwave. It can also be frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Helpful Tips
Prep Vegetables in Advance: Chop all your vegetables beforehand. This not only saves time but also ensures that everything cooks evenly, as you can add them to the skillet promptly. Use a Large Skillet: A larger skillet will give you enough room to cook all the ingredients without overcrowding, which is essential for even cooking and proper browning. A wok also works. Season as You Go: Don’t wait until the end to season your dish. Adding salt and spices during cooking helps build layers of flavor. Let It Rest: After cooking, let the skillet rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together better.
Easy, tasty, and nutritious. Sounds like a winner to me. Pin or bookmark this recipe so you always know where to find it. And be sure to subscribe to GypsyPlate, we’re always cooking up new recipes for you. For more easy meals, check out our hand picked collection of Dinner Ideas for Tonight. Until next time…
Sausage and Veggies, on our Gypsy Plate… enjoy!
Try these other sausage recipes:Sausage Tortellini BakePasta alla NorcinaCurried SausagesPortuguese Bean SoupShrimp and Sausage CreoleToad in the HoleSunday Gravy
