Garlic-Infused Sausage and Summer Squash Medley
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of summer with this delightful Garlic-Infused Sausage and Summer Squash Medley. This dish celebrates the seasonal bounty of fresh squash and zucchini, perfectly complemented by the savory taste of cooked Polish sausage. Tossed with aromatic garlic and zesty Italian dressing, each bite is a symphony of flavors that is both hearty and refreshing. Serve it with perfectly toasted Italian bread for a complete meal that's ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings. This recipe not only highlights the essence of summer but also brings comfort to your dining table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Italian salad dressing
1/3-1/2 cup (bottled)
Garlic cloves
2 (minced)
Polish sausage
12 ounces (cooked, halved lengthwise, sliced diagonally)
Summer squash or zucchini
3 small (cut across into 3/4-inch pieces)
Italian bread
4-6 slices (lightly toasted)
Fresh oregano leaves
to taste (for garnish)
Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (coarsely shredded (optional))
Instructions
1
Preheat your broiler to high for even heat distribution.
2
In a small bowl, combine the Italian salad dressing with minced garlic, stirring well to infuse the flavors.
3
In an extra-large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of the dressing mixture over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and pieces of summer squash to the skillet. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is heated through and the squash is tender but still holds its shape.
4
While the sausage and squash are cooking, prepare the Italian bread. You can either toast it lightly in a toaster or place the slices on a broiler pan, brushing each slice with 1 tablespoon of the dressing mixture. Broil the bread 3 to 4 inches from the heat source for 1 to 2 minutes, until golden brown and toasty.
5
Once cooked, serve the sausage and squash hot with the toasted bread on the side. Drizzle with any remaining dressing, sprinkle fresh oregano leaves over the top, and add a generous amount of coarsely shredded Parmesan cheese for an optional creamy finish.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary protein used in this recipe?
The primary protein is 12 ounces of cooked Polish sausage, which is halved lengthwise and sliced diagonally.
What types of vegetables are included in the medley?
The recipe uses three small summer squashes or zucchinis, cut into 3/4-inch pieces.
What kind of dressing is used for the garlic infusion?
A bottled Italian salad dressing is used as the base for the garlic infusion.
How many garlic cloves are required?
The recipe requires two minced garlic cloves.
How long should the sausage and squash cook in the skillet?
They should be cooked for 8 to 10 minutes over medium heat until the sausage is heated and squash is tender.
What is the recommended bread for this dish?
Italian bread is recommended, specifically 4 to 6 slices.
What setting should the broiler be on for the bread?
The broiler should be set to high.
How do you prepare the garlic-infused dressing?
In a small bowl, combine the Italian salad dressing with minced garlic and stir well.
How much dressing is added to the skillet initially?
Two tablespoons of the garlic and dressing mixture are added to the skillet to cook the sausage and squash.
Can I use zucchini instead of summer squash?
Yes, the recipe allows for either summer squash or zucchini.
How should the Italian bread be prepared?
Brush each slice with 1 tablespoon of the dressing mixture and broil for 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown.
What is the suggested garnish for this recipe?
The dish is garnished with fresh oregano leaves to taste.
Is there a cheese option for this dish?
Yes, you can optionally add 1/4 cup of coarsely shredded Parmesan cheese.
What size should the squash pieces be?
The squash should be cut across into 3/4-inch pieces.
How far from the heat source should the bread be broiled?
The bread should be placed 3 to 4 inches from the heat source.
What kind of skillet is recommended?
An extra-large skillet is recommended for even cooking.
Do you serve the bread on the side?
Yes, the toasted Italian bread is served on the side of the hot sausage and squash medley.
How much Italian dressing is needed in total?
The recipe calls for 1/3 to 1/2 cup of bottled Italian salad dressing.
What is the first step of the instructions?
The first step is to preheat your broiler to high for even heat distribution.
What do you do with any remaining dressing?
Drizzle any remaining dressing over the sausage and squash before serving.
Should the sausage be pre-cooked?
Yes, the ingredients list specifies that the Polish sausage should be cooked before starting.
How should the Polish sausage be sliced?
It should be halved lengthwise and then sliced diagonally.
Is this recipe considered a summer dish?
Yes, it is described as celebrating the seasonal bounty of fresh summer squash and zucchini.
How many small squashes are needed?
The recipe requires three small summer squashes or zucchinis.
Is this recipe suitable for casual gatherings?
Yes, it is described as ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
What texture should the squash have after cooking?
The squash should be tender but still hold its shape.
How much Parmesan cheese is suggested?
The recipe suggests 1/4 cup of coarsely shredded Parmesan cheese.
Can I toast the bread in a toaster instead of the broiler?
Yes, the instructions state you can either toast it lightly in a toaster or use the broiler.
How often should you stir the skillet?
You should stir the sausage and squash occasionally while they cook for 8 to 10 minutes.
What flavor profile does the Italian dressing provide?
The dressing provides a zesty flavor that complements the savory sausage and fresh vegetables.