Content EditorImagine sunny days, the grill heating up, and an array of vegetables ready to be transformed into something delicious. That’s exactly how the idea of grilled chicken sausages and summer vegetables came to me.
This dish perfectly balances flavors and textures while bringing a rainbow of colors to the table. It’s not just about eating; it’s about enjoying the season and sharing a meal that feels light yet satisfying.
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What Can You Pair with This Dish?
Here’s a fun twist: while you can serve grilled chicken sausages and summer vegetables just as they are, consider pairing them with a zesty quinoa salad or crusty bread. A light, crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the flavors, making your meal feel complete. If you want to elevate your dining experience, perhaps add a dollop of homemade tzatziki or a tangy mustard sauce on the side. Let’s explore the beauty that this delectable dish can bring to your table.
Why This Recipe is Great for You
Not only is this recipe vibrant and flavorful, but it also packs a nutritional punch. As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I care deeply about balance. Grilled chicken sausages are a lean protein choice, and when paired with a variety of colorful summer vegetables, you create a plate rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Plus, this dish takes less than 30 minutes to prepare. Who doesn’t love a meal that is both quick to make and nutritious?
My Cooking Journey with These Ingredients
As I set out to create this dish, I knew which flavors I wanted to highlight. The crispness of green beans, the sweetness of bell peppers, and the juiciness of tomatoes—each ingredient brings its own magic.
While exploring my local farmers’ market, I picked up fresh ingredients that would make this dish stand out. Fresh basil, vibrant summer squash, and succulent chicken sausage—all these components came together harmoniously in my kitchen.
Here’s a dive into the specifics of creating this dish, starting with the ingredients.
Ingredients List
- ¼ cup cold-pressed extra-virgin olive oil
This oil not only adds richness but also offers healthy fats essential for good nutrition.
- 1 medium bell pepper (any color), seeded and chopped into bite-sized pieces
Bell peppers add a crunch and a slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the sausages.
- 1 teaspoon Mediterranean dried oregano
This herb provides a fragrant, earthy touch that enhances the overall taste.
- 1 tablespoon raw honey or light agave syrup
A hint of sweetness helps balance the savory elements in the dish.
- ½ lb crisp green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch segments
These beans add a satisfying crunch, making the dish a joy to eat.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
This mustard is a secret weapon! It ties the dressing together and boosts the flavor.
- 1 medium sweet onion, roughly chopped into 1-inch chunks
A touch of sweetness from the onion adds depth to the grilled flavors.
- 1 medium zucchini squash, ends trimmed and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
Zucchini is mild, absorbs flavors well, and adds nutritional value.
- 3 medium garlic cloves, finely minced
Garlic is a universal flavor enhancer that brings warmth to the dish.
- 6 links chicken or turkey sausage, sliced into ½-inch rounds
Opting for chicken or turkey keeps this dish lean while still satisfying.
- 1 medium yellow summer squash, trimmed and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
Like zucchini, yellow squash adds color and mildness that complements other ingredients.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
This subtle smokiness elevates the dish to new savory heights.
- 1 cup whole cherry or grape tomatoes
These burst with flavor, adding juiciness and color to the plate.
- Sea salt and cracked black pepper, to taste
Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
- ¼ cup white wine vinegar or champagne vinegar
A tangy splash offers brightness and balance to the dish.
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
Fresh basil lends a lovely aroma and herbal flavor to the final dish.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Sausages and Summer Vegetables
Ready to bring this vibrant dish to life? Follow these steps, and let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together your olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, white wine vinegar, oregano, and smoked paprika in a bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste. This marinade will infuse your vegetables and sausages with fantastic flavor.
Step 2: Chop the Veggies
Tackle the vegetables! Chop the bell pepper, onion, zucchini, and summer squash into bite-sized pieces. Trim the green beans, and ensure your tomatoes are whole. The colorful mix will make your dish visually appealing.
Step 3: Blend Everything Together
In a large bowl, combine the vegetables, sliced sausages, and the marinade. Make sure everything is well-coated. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
While the mixture marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high. If you don’t have an outdoor grill, a grill pan will work just fine. Make sure it’s hot enough to achieve those beautiful grill marks.
Step 5: Grill the Mixture
Once the grill is hot, carefully place the marinated mixture onto the grill. Spread it out in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Grill for about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure everything cooks evenly. You’ll know it’s ready when the sausage is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender with slight char marks.
Step 6: Add Fresh Basil
Once everything is cooked, remove it from the grill and gently toss in the fresh basil. This step adds a burst of freshness that completes your dish.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Present the grilled chicken sausages and summer vegetables on a vibrant platter. You can serve it as is or alongside your favorite sides. Don’t forget to drizzle a bit more olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh basil on top for a fantastic touch! Enjoy each flavorful bite.
Recipe Notes
- Cold-Pressed Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: This oil is a great source of heart-healthy fats. Its flavor elevates dishes without overpowering them.
- Bell Pepper: Sweet peppers provide a colorful crunch and are a great source of vitamin C. Experiment with different colors for extra visual appeal.
- Mediterranean Dried Oregano: This fragrant herb infuses dishes with a taste reminiscent of the Mediterranean.
- Raw Honey or Agave Syrup: These natural sweeteners add balance. Honey has numerous health benefits!
- Green Beans: High in fiber and vitamins, these beans are refreshing and crisp, making them a fantastic addition.
- Dijon Mustard: This condiment adds a subtle tang. It works exceptionally well in marinades.
- Sweet Onion: The sweetness lends depth. Onions are also loaded with antioxidants.
- Zucchini and Yellow Squash: Nutrient-dense and low in calories, both squashes are fantastic for texture and flavor.
- Garlic: This aromatic contributes to the overall flavor while also being good for your heart.
- Chicken/Turkey Sausage: Leaner options pack in protein without the extra calories.
- Smoked Paprika: This spice enhances complexity; its smokiness deeply satisfies.
- Cherry/Grape Tomatoes: A source of antioxidants, these tomatoes burst with sweetness.
- Vinegar: This isn’t just a dressing agent; it enhances flavors and adds zesty brightness.
- Basil: Fresh herbs tie everything together, providing a subtle aromatic quality.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe! Here are some variations to try:
- Spicy Option: Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace sausages with grilled portobello mushrooms or tempeh.
- Herb Variations: Swap basil for fresh cilantro or parsley for a different herbal profile.
- Added Grains: Serve over quinoa or farro for a more filling meal.
- Cheesy Delight: A sprinkle of feta or goat cheese on top can introduce an extra layer of flavor.
- Tropical Flair: Add pineapple chunks to the grill for a sweet, smoky contrast.
Grilled Chicken Sausages And Summer Vegetables Recipe
Equipment
- A large bowl, whisk
Ingredients
- ¼ cup cold-pressed extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium bell pepper any color, seeded and chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon Mediterranean dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon raw honey or light agave syrup
- ½ lb crisp green beans trimmed and cut into 1-inch segments
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 medium sweet onion roughly chopped into 1-inch chunks
- 1 medium zucchini squash ends trimmed and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 3 medium garlic cloves finely minced
- 6 links chicken or turkey sausage sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 1 medium yellow summer squash trimmed and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup whole cherry or grape tomatoes
- Sea salt and cracked black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup white wine vinegar or champagne vinegar
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves finely chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- Start by whisking together your olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, white wine vinegar, oregano, and smoked paprika in a bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste. This marinade will infuse your vegetables and sausages with fantastic flavor.
Step 2: Chop the Veggies
- Tackle the vegetables! Chop the bell pepper, onion, zucchini, and summer squash into bite-sized pieces. Trim the green beans, and ensure your tomatoes are whole. The colorful mix will make your dish visually appealing.
Step 3: Blend Everything Together
- In a large bowl, combine the vegetables, sliced sausages, and the marinade. Make sure everything is well-coated. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
- While the mixture marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high. If you don’t have an outdoor grill, a grill pan will work just fine. Make sure it’s hot enough to achieve those beautiful grill marks.
Step 5: Grill the Mixture
- Once the grill is hot, carefully place the marinated mixture onto the grill. Spread it out in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Grill for about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure everything cooks evenly. You’ll know it’s ready when the sausage is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender with slight char marks.
Step 6: Add Fresh Basil
- Once everything is cooked, remove it from the grill and gently toss in the fresh basil. This step adds a burst of freshness that completes your dish.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Present the grilled chicken sausages and summer vegetables on a vibrant platter. You can serve it as is or alongside your favorite sides. Don’t forget to drizzle a bit more olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh basil on top for a fantastic touch! Enjoy each flavorful bite.
Notes
- Cold-Pressed Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: This oil is a great source of heart-healthy fats. Its flavor elevates dishes without overpowering them.
- Bell Pepper: Sweet peppers provide a colorful crunch and are a great source of vitamin C. Experiment with different colors for extra visual appeal.
- Mediterranean Dried Oregano: This fragrant herb infuses dishes with a taste reminiscent of the Mediterranean.
- Raw Honey or Agave Syrup: These natural sweeteners add balance. Honey has numerous health benefits!
- Green Beans: High in fiber and vitamins, these beans are refreshing and crisp, making them a fantastic addition.
- Dijon Mustard: This condiment adds a subtle tang. It works exceptionally well in marinades.
- Sweet Onion: The sweetness lends depth. Onions are also loaded with antioxidants.
- Zucchini and Yellow Squash: Nutrient-dense and low in calories, both squashes are fantastic for texture and flavor.
- Garlic: This aromatic contributes to the overall flavor while also being good for your heart.
- Chicken/Turkey Sausage: Leaner options pack in protein without the extra calories.
- Smoked Paprika: This spice enhances complexity; its smokiness deeply satisfies.
- Cherry/Grape Tomatoes: A source of antioxidants, these tomatoes burst with sweetness.
- Vinegar: This isn’t just a dressing agent; it enhances flavors and adds zesty brightness.
- Basil: Fresh herbs tie everything together, providing a subtle aromatic quality.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fresh brings a unique crunch and flavor, frozen vegetables can work in a pinch. They may release more water, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.
2. How do I know when the chicken sausage is fully cooked?
Chicken sausage should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check. The sausages will also look golden brown and firm to the touch.
3. What should I do if I have leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for the best results.
4. Can I prep the ingredients ahead of time?
Yes! You can chop the vegetables and marinate the sausage mixture a day in advance. Keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.
5. What other proteins can I use instead of chicken sausage?
Turkey sausage is a great substitute. You could also try beef or plant-based sausages if you prefer.
6. How can I make this dish more filling?
Serve it over a base of cooked grains like brown rice, quinoa, or couscous. You can also add legumes like chickpeas for extra protein.
Conclusion
Grilled chicken sausages and summer vegetables is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors, colors, and seasonal joy. Preparing this dish connects you with the essence of cooking—fresh ingredients and the happiness they bring.
Whether you’re hosting friends or relishing a meal alone, this recipe has a way of brightening the day. With its wealth of nutrients and vibrant taste, you’ll find yourself making this dish time and again. So grab those fresh ingredients, fire up the grill, and enjoy a taste of summer at any time of the year!
