Are you looking for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that's both healthy and satisfying? Look no further! This recipe for zucchini with sausage is a fantastic choice, perfect for busy weeknights and impressive enough for a casual dinner party. It's a delightful blend of savory sausage, tender zucchini, and aromatic herbs, all coming together in a simple yet flavorful dish. This recipe is packed with fresh ingredients and requires minimal cooking time, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, your choice!), casings removed
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
-
Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until it's no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
-
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
-
Combine Ingredients: Stir in the zucchini, diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender.
-
Return the Sausage: Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet and stir to combine. Heat through for a couple of minutes.
-
Serve: Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired. This delicious dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Cooking Tips for the Best Zucchini and Sausage:
- Don't overcook the zucchini: Overcooked zucchini can become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp zucchini.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs and spices to your liking. Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this dish over pasta, rice, or quinoa for a heartier meal.
Variations on this Delicious Dish:
- Lemon Zucchini Sausage: Add the zest and juice of one lemon during the last few minutes of cooking for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Spicy Sausage Zucchini: Use spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick.
- White Wine Zucchini Sausage: Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine after cooking the onions and garlic for an added layer of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This easy recipe for zucchini with sausage provides a simple yet satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. It's a healthy and delicious option, showcasing the best of homemade cooking. Enjoy!