Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage are a fantastic choice for a quick and flavorful low-carb summer dinner. These kabobs are not only simple to prepare but also versatile enough for any gathering, from family barbecues to casual dinner parties. The combination of juicy sausages and fresh vegetables makes for a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The marination process infuses the veggies with incredible flavor, making each bite delightful.
• Low-Carb Option: Perfect for those looking to enjoy a filling meal without the carbs.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
• Grill-Friendly: Ideal for outdoor cooking, these kabobs are perfect for grilling season.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers
• Grill or Broiler
• Ziploc Bag
• Knife and Cutting Board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: They hold everything together, ensuring even cooking and easy handling on the grill.
• Grill or Broiler: Provides an excellent heat source for achieving those perfect grill marks while enhancing flavors through charring.
• Ziploc Bag: Ideal for marinating vegetables quickly; it allows for easy mixing and ensuring all pieces are coated.
• Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for cutting the ingredients into uniform sizes, which helps them cook evenly.

Ingredients

Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage are perfect for a quick and easy low-carb summer dinner!

For the Kabobs

• 16 oz. package pre-cooked sausages (see notes)
• 4 small zucchini
• 2 red bell peppers (optional)
• 1 small red onion (optional)
• 1/4 cup Newman’s Own Classic Oil and Vinegar Dressing (see notes)

How to Make Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Cut zucchini and any other vegetables you’re using into same-size pieces, aiming for uniformity in size.
2. Trim some flat edges off the zucchini to help them stay put on the skewers.

Step 2: Marinate the Veggies

1. Place your cut vegetables into a Ziploc bag.
2. Pour in enough Italian dressing to moisten all the vegetables.
3. Allow them to marinate for at least one hour; if time permits, refrigerate them all day.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

1. Brush your grill grates with olive oil or non-stick spray.
2. Preheat your grill or broiler to medium heat—around 350°F (you should be able to hold your hand over it for about 3 seconds).

Step 4: Prepare the Sausages

1. Cut sausages into chunks, around five pieces per sausage.

Step 5: Assemble the Kabobs

1. Drain marinated vegetables if needed, or cut veggies if you didn’t marinate them.
2. Thread alternating sausage chunks and vegetables onto skewers, ensuring they’re snug but not overcrowded.

Step 6: Grill the Kabobs

1. Brush kabobs with additional dressing if you didn’t marinate them beforehand.
2. Grill over medium heat, turning frequently until sausages are browned and veggies are barely tender—about 15 minutes.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Once cooked through, take kabobs off heat and serve hot. Enjoy your Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage!

How to Serve Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage can be served in various delightful ways. These kabobs not only make a filling main dish but also pair well with multiple accompaniments, enhancing their flavor and presentation.

On a Bed of Greens

• Use fresh spinach or mixed greens as a base for your kabobs. The crisp greens provide a refreshing contrast to the warm kabobs.

With Dipping Sauces

• Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like tzatziki, hummus, or a spicy mustard. This adds an exciting twist and allows guests to customize their flavors.

In Soft Tortillas

• Wrap the kabobs in warm tortillas for a fun twist. Add some avocado slices and salsa for extra flavor.

Accompanied by Grains

• Serve alongside quinoa or couscous. These grains complement the flavors of the kabobs while providing additional texture.

How to Perfect Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

To ensure your Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:

• Uniform Cuts: Make sure all vegetables are cut into similar sizes. This ensures even cooking and better presentation.
• Marinate for Flavor: Allow vegetables to marinate longer for enhanced flavor. A few hours can make a big difference.
• Oil the Grill: Preheat and oil the grill grates thoroughly to prevent sticking. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks.
• Turn Frequently: Rotate kabobs often while grilling. This promotes even cooking and prevents burning.
• Check Doneness: Keep an eye on the vegetables; they should be tender but not mushy when done.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy kabobs hot off the grill for the best taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

Pair your Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage with these delicious side dishes to create a well-rounded meal.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with herb butter adds a smoky-sweet flavor that complements the kabobs beautifully.
2. Mediterranean Couscous Salad – Light and refreshing, this salad features cucumbers, tomatoes, feta cheese, and lemon dressing for a burst of flavor.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Mixed seasonal veggies roasted until crispy provide an earthy side that pairs nicely with grilled meats.
4. Garlic Bread – Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any juices from the kabobs, adding extra flavor to your meal.
5. Potato Wedges – Crispy baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer a satisfying crunch alongside tender kabobs.
6. Mixed Green Salad – A simple salad of mixed greens topped with vinaigrette provides freshness that balances the richness of sausage.
7. Quinoa Pilaf – Nutty quinoa pilaf infused with herbs elevates your meal while keeping it healthy and hearty.
8. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, enhancing the overall taste experience of your kabob dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage, it’s important to steer clear of common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marination: Not marinating the vegetables can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you let the veggies soak in the dressing for at least an hour for maximum taste.

• Using Unevenly Cut Ingredients: Cutting zucchini and other vegetables into uneven sizes can result in uneven cooking. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure everything cooks at the same rate.

• Overcrowding the Skewers: Stuffing too many ingredients on one skewer can lead to uneven cooking and difficulty turning them on the grill. Use a moderate amount of each ingredient per skewer.

• Ignoring Grill Temperature: Cooking kabobs over too high or too low heat can either burn or undercook them. Maintain a medium heat for best results, allowing even cooking.

• Not Checking Doneness: Relying solely on time without checking doneness may leave your kabobs undercooked or overdone. Always check that sausage is browned and vegetables are tender.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover kabobs in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

• Place cooked kabobs in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to label them with the date.

Reheating Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake kabobs for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place kabobs on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and warm the kabobs for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re wondering more about Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage, here are some answers to frequently asked questions:

Can I use different vegetables in Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute other veggies like mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers based on your preference.

How do I make Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, simply replace sausage with plant-based alternatives or hearty vegetables such as eggplant or portobello mushrooms.

What type of skewers should I use for Easy Kabobs?

You can use either wooden or metal skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

Are Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage good for meal prep?

Yes! These kabobs are perfect for meal prepping. You can grill them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week as a quick meal option.

Final Thoughts

Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize them by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasoning levels. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful low-carb summer dinner that everyone will love!