Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage are not only a delightful summer meal, but they also cater to your desire for a quick and low-carb dinner. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a family night in, these kabobs offer a perfect blend of flavors that everyone will love. The combination of juicy sausage and tender zucchini creates a satisfying dish that’s both nutritious and delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have your kabobs ready for the grill in no time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The use of Newman’s Own Classic Oil and Vinegar Dressing enhances the taste of the vegetables, making every bite bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Options: Feel free to mix and match vegetables according to your preferences or what you have on hand, ensuring your kabobs suit everyone’s taste.
• Low-Carb Delight: These kabobs are perfect for those following a low-carb diet while still being filling and satisfying.
• Great for Gatherings: Easy to prepare in bulk, they’re an excellent choice for family gatherings or summer parties.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, let’s gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers
• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Ziploc bags
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Essential for assembling your kabobs, allowing you to easily grill multiple pieces at once.
• Grill: Provides the ideal cooking method for achieving that charred flavor and texture that makes kabobs irresistible.
• Ziploc bags: Perfect for marinating your vegetables without making a mess; they help evenly coat everything with dressing.

Ingredients

To make these tasty Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage, you’ll need:

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)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Cut zucchini and any other vegetables into same-size pieces. Aim for flat edges to help them grill evenly, making zucchini slightly smaller than sausage chunks.

Step 2: Marinate the Vegetables

1. Place cut vegetables into a Ziploc bag.
2. Pour in enough Italian dressing to moisten all vegetables well.
3. Let them marinate for at least an hour or all day if preferred. Remember to refrigerate if marinating longer than an hour.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

1. Brush grill grates with olive oil or non-stick spray.
2. Preheat grill or broiler to medium heat—about 3 seconds is how long you can hold your hand above it comfortably.

Step 4: Cut the Sausage

1. Slice pre-cooked sausages into chunks, aiming for about five pieces per sausage.

Step 5: Assemble the Kabobs

1. Drain marinated vegetables if applicable.
2. Thread alternating sausage chunks and vegetable pieces onto skewers. Ensure skewers pierce through skins so everything stays in place during grilling.

Step 6: Grill the Kabobs

1. Optionally brush kabobs with extra Italian dressing if vegetables weren’t marinated.
2. Grill over medium heat while turning frequently until sausages are browned and veggies are barely tender—approximately 15 minutes.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot as a delightful meal option!

Your Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage are now ready! Enjoy this tasty dish that’s sure to impress at any gathering or family dinner!

How to Serve Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

Serving Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage is simple and versatile, making them a fantastic option for any summer gathering. Here are some creative ways to enjoy your kabobs.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Greens Salad – Serve the kabobs on a bed of fresh mixed greens, drizzled with additional dressing for a refreshing meal.
• Spinach and Feta Salad – Pair with a spinach salad topped with feta cheese and olives for a Mediterranean touch.

With Dipping Sauces

• Tzatziki Sauce – A cool yogurt-based sauce that complements the spices in the sausage beautifully.
• Spicy Mustard – For those who enjoy some heat, serve with spicy mustard for an added kick.

Inside Wraps

• Lettuce Wraps – Use large lettuce leaves to wrap the kabobs for a low-carb option that adds crunch.
• Pita Bread – Stuff the kabobs into warm pita bread along with your favorite veggies for a hearty meal.

How to Perfect Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

To make your Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer – Let veggies marinate overnight for deeper flavor.
• Use Skewers Wisely – Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Cut Evenly – Ensure all vegetables are cut to similar sizes for even cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd Skewers – Give each piece space on the skewer; this allows heat to circulate properly.
• Rotate Frequently – Turn kabobs often while grilling to achieve even browning on all sides.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Kabobs enhances the experience. Here are some great options to complement your meal.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn grilled until charred pairs well with the flavors of the kabobs.
2. Quinoa Salad – A light, protein-packed salad that adds texture and nutrients to your plate.
3. Roasted Potatoes – Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, roasted potatoes make a hearty side dish.
4. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances out the richness of the sausage.
5. Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread can be a delightful addition, perfect for soaking up juices from the kabobs.
6. Cucumber Tomato Salad – A refreshing salad that provides crunch and acidity to brighten up the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage can be simple, but there are some common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcrowding the Skewers: When you pack too many ingredients on one skewer, they won’t cook evenly. Leave some space between the pieces to ensure proper grilling.

• Not Marinating Long Enough: If you skip marinating or don’t allow enough time, your vegetables may lack flavor. Aim for at least an hour of marinating time for the best taste.

• Using Inconsistent Sizes: Cutting vegetables and sausage into uneven sizes can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure all pieces are similar in size for a uniform cook.

• Skipping Oil on the Grill: Failing to oil your grill grates can cause kabobs to stick. Always brush the grates with oil or use a non-stick spray before grilling.

• Ignoring Cooking Times: Each ingredient cooks at different rates. Keep an eye on your kabobs, turning them frequently to achieve perfect browning without burning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure they cool down before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

• Place kabobs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake kabobs on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place kabobs on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of oil. Sauté kabobs for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage are delicious, but you might have some questions about this recipe. Here are some common inquiries:

Can I substitute other vegetables in Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage?

Yes, feel free to use any vegetables you enjoy! Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms work great as alternatives.

How do I know when my kabobs are done?

Kabobs are ready when the sausage is browned and the zucchini is tender but not mushy. This usually takes about 15 minutes on medium heat.

Can I make Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the vegetables earlier in the day or even assemble the kabobs and refrigerate them until you’re ready to grill.

What type of sausages work best for these kabobs?

Pre-cooked sausages are best, but you can use any flavor you prefer. Chicken, turkey, or pork sausages will all taste great!

Final Thoughts

Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage provide a quick meal option that’s both tasty and versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite veggies or switching up the sausages based on your preferences. This dish is perfect for summer grilling or any casual get-together. Give it a try; you’ll love how simple yet flavorful it is!