Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage are perfect for a quick and easy low-carb summer dinner! These kabobs bring together the savory flavor of sausages and the freshness of zucchini, making them ideal for barbecues, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight meal. The best part? They come together in just a few steps, allowing you to enjoy delicious food without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, these kabobs are ready to grill in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of pre-cooked sausages and marinated vegetables creates a delightful taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to switch up the veggies based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
• Healthy Option: Low in carbs and high in protein, these kabobs fit well into a healthy diet.
• Grill or Broil: Whether you’re using a grill or broiler, this recipe allows for flexibility in cooking methods.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers
• Grill or broiler
• Ziploc bag
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Essential for threading sausage and vegetables together for even cooking.
• Grill or Broiler: Provides the necessary heat to get those perfect grill marks and enhance flavors.
• Ziploc Bag: Perfect for marinating vegetables easily without mess.
• Cutting Board & Knife: Necessary for prepping your ingredients quickly and safely.

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 into same-size pieces. Ensure the zucchini is slightly smaller than the sausage chunks for even cooking.

Step 2: Marinate the Vegetables

• Place vegetables into a Ziploc bag.
• Pour enough Italian dressing to moisten all vegetables. Let them marinate for at least an hour (refrigerate if longer).

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill or Broiler

• Brush grill grates with olive oil or use non-stick spray.
• Preheat to medium heat, which should allow you to hold your hand there for about three seconds comfortably.

Step 4: Prepare the Sausages

• Cut each sausage into about five chunks.

Step 5: Assemble the Kabobs

• Drain marinated vegetables if applicable.
• Thread sausage chunks and vegetables onto skewers, alternating them. Ensure they are arranged with flat sides facing out for better grill marks.

Step 6: Grill the Kabobs

• If not marinated, brush kabobs with Italian salad dressing before grilling.
• Grill over medium heat, turning frequently until sausages are browned and vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes.

Step 7: Serve Hot

• Once cooked, serve your kabobs hot off the grill. Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage are a delightful addition to any summer meal. They are versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your taste and occasion.

On a Bed of Greens

• Fresh Salad: Serve the kabobs on a bed of mixed greens for added freshness. Toss in some cherry tomatoes for color.
• Grilled Veggie Platter: Pair the kabobs with grilled vegetables like asparagus or corn for a colorful display.

With Dipping Sauces

• Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic aioli complements the flavors well and adds richness.
• Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy heat, serve with a spicy hot sauce for an extra kick.

As Part of a Buffet

• Mini Skewers: Cut the kabobs into smaller pieces for easy serving at parties. Guests can grab them as finger food.
• Taco Bar Style: Provide tortillas, lettuce, and toppings for guests to create their own kabob wraps.

How to Perfect Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

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

• Bold marinades: Marinate the vegetables longer for maximum flavor absorption. The longer they sit, the tastier they become.
• Bold skewer choice: Use metal skewers instead of wooden ones. Metal skewers prevent burning and hold heat better.
• Bold vegetable variety: Experiment with different vegetables like mushrooms or cherry tomatoes to add more texture and flavor.
• Bold cooking method: Consider broiling if you don’t have access to a grill. This method also gives excellent results.
• Bold timing: Keep an eye on cooking times; turning frequently ensures even cooking without overdoing it.
• Bold seasoning options: Don’t hesitate to sprinkle additional herbs or spices before grilling for extra depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

These Easy Kabobs make a great main dish, but pairing them with tasty sides enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent side dishes that complement the kabobs perfectly.

1. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds protein and pairs well with the flavors of the kabobs.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings a delightful crunch; grill it alongside your kabobs for convenience.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the savory kabobs, making it an ideal side dish.
4. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any juices from the kabobs while adding flavor.
5. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes offer heartiness that complements the lighter elements of the kabobs.
6. Cucumber Salad: A crisp cucumber salad sprinkled with vinegar adds freshness and balances out heavier flavors in your meal.
7. Fruit Skewers: Light fruit skewers can serve as both a side and dessert option, especially in summer gatherings.
8. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad dressed in Italian dressing pairs beautifully with grilled meats like sausage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage, there are a few common pitfalls to keep in mind. Avoiding these mistakes will enhance your grilling experience.

• Skipping the Marinade: Neglecting to marinate the vegetables can lead to less flavor. Always give your veggies some time to soak in the dressing for better taste.

• Overcrowding Skewers: Stuffing too many ingredients on each skewer may cause uneven cooking. Space out your sausage and vegetables for even grilling and perfect results.

• Not Preheating the Grill: Failing to preheat your grill can result in sticking and uneven cooking. Always make sure it reaches medium heat before placing your kabobs on.

• Ignoring Cooking Time: Overcooking or undercooking can ruin your kabobs. Monitor them closely and aim for around 15 minutes for perfectly grilled kabobs.

• Using Wooden Skewers Without Soaking: Using dry wooden skewers without soaking can lead to burning. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent this issue.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

• You can freeze assembled kabobs before grilling.
• Use a freezer-safe bag or container; they’ll keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place kabobs on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place kabobs on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.

• Stovetop: Reheat kabobs in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage?

To make Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage, cut zucchini and other vegetables into bite-sized pieces, marinate them, thread onto skewers with sausage, and grill until cooked.

Can I substitute the sausages in this recipe?

Yes! You can use chicken, turkey, or plant-based sausages as alternatives depending on your dietary preferences.

What other vegetables work well with kabobs?

Other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or bell peppers can add variety to your Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage. Feel free to get creative!

Can I prepare these kabobs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the kabobs earlier in the day or even freeze them for future grilling sessions.

Final Thoughts

Easy Kabobs with Zucchini and Sausage are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding different vegetables or using various types of sausage based on your taste preferences. Try this recipe today for a flavorful low-carb meal that’s perfect for summer grilling!