Crisp Squash-And-Pepper Toss
Crisp squash and colorful peppers tossed with herbs and sausage create a vibrant, flavorful dish perfect for a quick, satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1/4 tsp. dried whole basil ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. dried whole oregano ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. dried whole thyme ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. pepper ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. red wine vinegar ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. water ⓘ
- 2 lb. yellow squash, cut into 1/2-inch slices ⓘ
- 1 large onion, chopped ⓘ
- 1 clove garlic, minced ⓘ
- 1 sweet red pepper, cut into 1/2-inch strips ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil
- 1/4 lb. kielbasa (Polish sausage), cut into 1/4-inch slices ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine basil, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, vinegar, and water in a shallow 2 1/2-quart casserole; add squash.
- Cover with heavy-duty plastic wrap; microwave at High for 3 to 4 minutes. Let stand, covered, 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add onion, garlic, sweet red pepper, and olive oil; toss gently.
- Cover and microwave at High for 2 to 4 minutes.
- Add sausage; toss gently.
- Cover and microwave at High for 1 to 2 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried ones, as they can enhance the dish significantly. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can replace the kielbasa with mushrooms or chickpeas. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different vegetables may require varying times to cook through. Also, a dash of lemon juice can brighten the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Crisp Squash-And-Pepper Toss warm as a side dish to grilled meats or fish. It pairs beautifully with Potato Chip Munchies for a casual gathering. For a complete meal, consider serving it over quinoa or alongside crusty bread. A sprinkle of feta cheese on top can add a delightful creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. This dish can also be enjoyed cold in salads or wraps.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crisp Squash-And-Pepper Toss contains roughly 274 calories, with 11g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value), calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1337mg per serving (58% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute zucchini or pattypan squash for yellow squash. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as different squash varieties may cook differently. Zucchini, for instance, tends to cook faster, so you might want to adjust the microwave time accordingly.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the squash and pepper mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the kielbasa and reheat shortly before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep or serving at gatherings.
What other spices can I add for extra flavor?
Feel free to experiment with spices like smoked paprika for a smoky flavor or red pepper flakes for some heat. Cumin or coriander can also add an earthy note. Just be sure to start with small amounts and adjust to taste, ensuring the flavors remain balanced.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).