Name: Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 oz. package pre-cooked sausages; 4 small zucchini; 2 red bell peppers (optional); 1 small red onion (optional); 1/4 cup Newman's Own Classic Oil and Vinegar Dressing; Fresh parsley for garnish

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Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage are the ideal solution for a quick, low-carb summer dinner. These flavorful skewers combine juicy sausages with fresh zucchini and colorful veggies, making them perfect for family gatherings, barbecues, or a simple weeknight meal. The ease of preparation and delicious taste will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can easily whip up these kabobs after a busy day.
Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of pre-cooked sausages and marinated vegetables ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
Versatile Options: Customize your kabobs by adding different veggies or adjusting the marinade to suit your taste.
Healthy Choice: These kabobs are low in carbs and high in protein, making them a great option for health-conscious diners.
Grill or Broil: Whether you prefer grilling outdoors or broiling indoors, this recipe works beautifully on both methods.

Tools and Preparation

To make Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skewers
Grill or broiler
Ziploc bags
Cutting board
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Skewers: Perfect for holding all your ingredients together while cooking. Metal or wooden skewers work well!
Grill or Broiler: Provides the necessary heat to achieve that delicious grilled flavor and attractive char marks.
Ziploc bags: Ideal for marinating vegetables without making a mess. They seal tightly and ensure even flavor distribution.

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)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Cut zucchini and any other vegetables you’re using into same-size pieces. Ensure zucchini pieces are slightly smaller than the sausage chunks for even cooking.

Step 2: Marinate the Veggies

Place cut vegetables into a Ziploc bag.
Pour enough Italian dressing over the vegetables to moisten them completely.
Seal the bag and let it marinate for at least an hour, or up to all day if desired (refrigerate if marinating longer than an hour).

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

Brush grill grates with olive oil or spray with non-stick spray.
Preheat your grill or broiler to medium heat; you should be able to hold your hand there for about three seconds comfortably.

Step 4: Prepare the Sausages

Cut sausages into chunks, aiming for about five pieces per sausage.

Step 5: Thread Skewers

Drain marinated vegetables if using pre-marinated ones; otherwise, cut fresh veggies into pieces.
Thread sausage chunks and vegetables onto skewers alternately. Make sure to push through flat sides so they don’t spin while cooking.

Step 6: Grill the Kabobs

If you didn’t marinate your veggies, brush kabobs lightly with Italian dressing.
Place kabobs on the grill over medium heat, turning frequently.
Cook until sausages are browned but zucchini is barely tender—about 15 minutes total.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Remove from grill, let cool slightly, then 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 are versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to make the most of your kabobs.

Serve with Fresh Salads

Greek Salad – A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese pairs perfectly with the kabobs.
Caesar Salad – The creamy dressing complements the savory flavors of the sausage beautifully.
Coleslaw – Crunchy coleslaw adds a nice texture contrast and a bit of tanginess to your meal.

Accompanying Dips

Tzatziki Sauce – This cool yogurt-based sauce is great for dipping and adds a refreshing flavor.
Hummus – A smooth hummus can be spread on a plate for an extra layer of flavor alongside your kabobs.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Wrap in Lettuce – For a low-carb option, serve kabobs wrapped in large lettuce leaves with your favorite sauces.
Skewer Platters – Arrange kabobs on a platter, garnished with herbs for an appealing presentation at gatherings.

How to Perfect Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

Getting the perfect kabob is all about preparation and cooking technique. Follow these tips for a flawless grilling experience.

Choose Quality Ingredients – Use fresh zucchini and high-quality sausages for the best flavor.
Cut Uniform Pieces – Ensure all vegetables are cut to similar sizes for even cooking.
Marinate Wisely – Allow enough time for marinating vegetables; longer marination enhances flavor.
Check Grill Temperature – Preheat your grill properly; medium heat is ideal for cooking without burning.
Turn Frequently – Rotate the kabobs often while grilling to achieve even browning on all sides.
Serve Immediately – For the best taste and texture, serve kabobs right off the grill while they’re hot.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

Pairing side dishes with Easy Kabobs can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement their flavors well.

Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with butter adds a delightful crunch.
Roasted Potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make a filling addition.
Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies provides a nutritious balance.
Garlic Bread – Warm garlic bread serves as a delicious way to soak up any juices from the kabobs.
Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf offers a mild base that pairs well with flavorful kabobs.
Fruit Skewers – Fresh fruit skewers bring sweetness to balance out savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the taste and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating your vegetables can lead to bland kabobs. Always allow time for the veggies to soak in flavor, ideally for an hour or more.
Cutting Vegetables Unevenly: If your zucchini and other vegetables are not cut into uniform pieces, they will cook unevenly. Aim for similar sizes to ensure everything is perfectly tender.
Overcrowding the Skewers: Packing too many ingredients onto each skewer can result in uneven cooking. Leave space between pieces so heat circulates properly.
Not Preheating the Grill: Failing to preheat your grill may lead to sticking or undercooked kabobs. Make sure the grill is hot before adding your skewers.
Ignoring Cooking Time: Overcooking can make zucchini mushy and sausages dry. Keep an eye on your kabobs, grilling them for about 15 minutes until just done.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover kabobs in an airtight container.
They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

Wrap kabobs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag; they will stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place kabobs on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, checking for warmth throughout.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate covered with a paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, turning halfway through.
Stovetop: Sauté over medium heat in a skillet with a splash of oil until heated through, usually around 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage gluten-free?

You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by ensuring that the sausage you use is certified gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free options that work well.

Can I use other vegetables in my kabobs?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with any vegetables you enjoy, such as cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or bell peppers.

What type of sausage works best for these kabobs?

Pre-cooked sausages are ideal as they speed up cooking time. You can choose flavors like Italian, chicken, or turkey sausage based on your preference.

How do I know when my kabobs are done?

Your kabobs are ready when the sausages are browned and the zucchini is tender but still firm. This usually takes about 15 minutes on medium heat.

Final Thoughts

Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a perfect low-carb summer dinner that you can customize according to your taste. Whether you enjoy them as-is or tweak them with different veggies, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table! Give it a try today!