When the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, there’s nothing quite like indulging in seasonal produce. The freshness of vegetables combined with the hearty flavor of andouille sausage creates a delightful medley that excites the palate and brings nutritional value to your table. Our Summer Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage is a vibrant, all-in-one meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. Not only does it come together in just 25 minutes, but it also offers a symphony of colors and flavors that embody the essence of summer.
This dish allows the subtle smokiness of the andouille sausage to contrast beautifully with the sweet and tangy notes of fresh summer vegetables. Each bite offers a hint of garlic and a sprinkle of herbs, making it an irresistibly savory experience. You will love how easy it is to customize, allowing you to add more of your favorite veggies or even throw in some extra spices to suite your personal taste. Whether enjoyed fresh off the stove or reheated for a next-day meal, this skillet will surely become a staple in your recipe repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Summer Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage
- Quick and Easy: Whip up a full meal in just 25 minutes, perfect for a busy lifestyle.
- Flavorful and Balanced: The smokiness of the andouille sausage complements the fresh, sweet vegetables for a rich, delicious experience.
- One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy the convenience of fewer dishes with this simple one-pan meal.
- Versatile: Easily customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables or spices.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you embark on creating this flavorful dish, ensure your kitchen is well-prepped to make the cooking process seamless. Start by clearing a workspace on your kitchen counter to accommodate your chopping board, knife, and the fresh vegetables. Make sure you have a large skillet, preferably non-stick or cast iron, to ensure an even cooking surface. You’ll also need a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula for stirring and tossing the vegetables and sausage.
Begin by gathering all the ingredients. Wash and pat dry the bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. This step is crucial because it ensures that the vegetables sear properly in the skillet, achieving that slight crispiness on the edges. Prepare the ingredients by slicing the andouille sausage into rounds, bell peppers into strips, zucchini into half-moons, tomatoes in halves, and finely slicing the red onion. Mince the garlic cloves to enhance the aroma and flavor of the dish. With everything within reach, you’re set to create a delectable meal with ease.
Ingredients
- 12 oz andouille sausage, sliced into rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Heat and Sear the Sausage
Begin by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the sliced andouille sausage. Cook the sausage slices until they achieve a golden-brown color on both sides. This step is essential to bring out the sausage’s smokiness and to maintain a firm texture. Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, introduce the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion. Stir in the minced garlic as well. Sauté these ingredients for about 5–6 minutes or until the vegetables begin to soften. The garlic should enhance the overall aroma, while the vegetables should start to caramelize slightly, releasing their natural sweetness.
Step 3: Spice It Up
With the vegetables softening, it’s time to infuse them with flavor. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, dried thyme, and a generous amount of salt and black pepper. Ensure the vegetables are evenly coated, using a wooden spoon to mix them thoroughly. Allow the spices to meld with the oil and vegetables, adding depth and warmth to the dish.
Step 4: Final Touches
Introduce the halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet, cooking them for an additional 2 minutes until they are slightly blistered. This process helps the tomatoes release their juices, creating a lovely glaze that coats the other vegetables. Finally, return the cooked andouille sausage to the skillet, tossing everything together until heated through. The skillet is now ready to be garnished with freshly chopped parsley and served hot.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute andouille sausage with chorizo or chicken sausage for different flavors.
- Vegetables: Add sliced mushrooms or asparagus for additional texture and taste.
- Spices: Include red pepper flakes for extra heat or add a squeeze of lemon juice for a touch of acidity.
Cooking Notes
- If the skillet becomes too dry while cooking, add a splash of chicken broth or water to ensure the vegetables remain moist.
- For uniform cooking, consider cutting the sausage and vegetables into similar-sized pieces.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crusty bread or a side of rice to soak up all the delicious juices.
- Serve alongside a simple green salad for a complete and refreshing meal.
Tips
- Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the sausage to achieve a proper sear.
- Pre-chop all vegetables to save time and create a smooth cooking process throughout.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: 22g per serving
- Sodium: 750mg per serving
FAQs
What can I use instead of andouille sausage?
You can substitute andouille sausage with other types of sausage like Polish kielbasa, chorizo, or smoked chicken sausage to maintain that rich, smoky flavor.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the sausage with a plant-based alternative or increase the amount of vegetables for a hearty, vegetarian version.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to revive the flavors.
What should I do if the sausage burns?
If the sausage begins to burn, lower the heat and add a small amount of olive oil or water to alleviate the cooking process and deglaze the pan.
Conclusion
The Summer Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. With its lively blend of colors and flavors, it promises a wholesome dining experience that celebrates the very essence of summer. The convenience of a single-pan meal coupled with its rich flavor profile makes it an irresistible option for any dinner setting. Embrace the versatility of this dish by experimenting with different veggies and proteins to suit your cravings. We would love to hear how you made this recipe your own, so don’t hesitate to leave a comment or share your photos online. Happy cooking!
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Delicious Summer Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
The Summer Sausage Skillet with Andouille Sausage is a vibrant, all-in-one meal that embodies the essence of summer.
Ingredients
- 12 oz andouille sausage, sliced into rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the sliced andouille sausage. Cook the sausage slices until they achieve a golden-brown color on both sides. This step is essential to bring out the sausage’s smokiness and to maintain a firm texture. Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, introduce the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion. Stir in the minced garlic as well. Sauté these ingredients for about 5–6 minutes or until the vegetables begin to soften. The garlic should enhance the overall aroma, while the vegetables should start to caramelize slightly, releasing their natural sweetness.
- With the vegetables softening, it’s time to infuse them with flavor. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, dried thyme, and a generous amount of salt and black pepper. Ensure the vegetables are evenly coated, using a wooden spoon to mix them thoroughly. Allow the spices to meld with the oil and vegetables, adding depth and warmth to the dish.
- Introduce the halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet, cooking them for an additional 2 minutes until they are slightly blistered. This process helps the tomatoes release their juices, creating a lovely glaze that coats the other vegetables. Finally, return the cooked andouille sausage to the skillet, tossing everything together until heated through. The skillet is now ready to be garnished with freshly chopped parsley and served hot.
Notes
Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the sausage to achieve a proper sear.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Protein: 22 g