Hearty Summer Squash and Sausage Stew: A Taste of Summer in a Bowl

Summer is a time of vibrant produce, and summer squash is one of the stars. This versatile vegetable, along with savory sausage, forms the base of a comforting and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a warm summer evening. This recipe for Summer Squash and Sausage Stew is easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and adaptable to your own preferences. Get ready to enjoy a taste of summer in a bowl!

Why You’ll Love This Summer Squash and Sausage Stew

This stew is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll keep coming back to this recipe:

* **Flavorful:** The combination of sweet summer squash, savory sausage, and aromatic herbs creates a complex and delicious flavor profile.
* **Easy to Make:** This recipe requires minimal effort and is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
* **Versatile:** You can easily customize this stew with your favorite vegetables and spices.
* **Healthy:** Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this stew is a nutritious and satisfying meal.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Summer squash is often inexpensive, making this a great budget-conscious meal.
* **Perfect for Leftovers:** The flavors meld together even more overnight, making this stew even better the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, gather these ingredients:

* **Summer Squash:** 2 medium yellow squash or zucchini, diced. The combination of yellow squash and zucchini adds a nice visual appeal and flavor complexity. Look for squash that are firm to the touch and have smooth, unblemished skin. Avoid squash that feel soft or have bruises.
* **Sausage:** 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot), removed from casings. The sausage is the heart of the flavor here. Italian sausage provides a classic savory taste, but feel free to experiment. Spicy Italian sausage will add a kick, while sweet Italian sausage offers a milder, sweeter flavor. You can also use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option. Make sure to remove the sausage from its casings before cooking to ensure it crumbles nicely.
* **Onion:** 1 medium yellow onion, chopped. Onion forms the aromatic base of the stew. Yellow onions are generally a good all-purpose choice, but you could also use white or sweet onions depending on your preference.
* **Garlic:** 2-3 cloves garlic, minced. Garlic adds another layer of savory flavor. Freshly minced garlic is always best for flavor.
* **Bell Pepper:** 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped. Bell pepper adds sweetness and a bit of crunch. Choose your favorite color; red, yellow, and orange bell peppers are sweeter than green bell peppers.
* **Diced Tomatoes:** 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained. Diced tomatoes provide acidity and liquid to the stew. Using undrained diced tomatoes is crucial as the liquid contributes significantly to the stew’s broth. You can also use crushed tomatoes for a smoother texture.
* **Chicken Broth:** 4 cups chicken broth. Chicken broth is the base of the stew. Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt level. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, although it will change the flavor profile slightly.
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons olive oil. Olive oil is used for sautéing the vegetables and sausage. You can also use other cooking oils like canola or vegetable oil.
* **Dried Italian Herbs:** 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs. This blend of herbs adds a classic Italian flavor. If you don’t have Italian herbs, you can use a combination of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary.
* **Red Pepper Flakes:** 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional). Red pepper flakes add a touch of heat. Adjust the amount to your preference or omit if you don’t like spicy food.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste. Seasoning is crucial to bring out the flavors of the stew. Taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper accordingly.
* **Fresh Parsley:** Chopped, for garnish (optional). Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor and a pop of color. You can also use other fresh herbs like basil or oregano.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** Grated, for serving (optional). Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory flavor and a creamy texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Summer Squash and Sausage Stew:

**Step 1: Brown the Sausage**

* Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
* Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to crumble the sausage well to avoid large chunks.
* Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. Leave any rendered fat in the pot, as this will add flavor to the vegetables.

**Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables**

* Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5-7 minutes. The onions should become translucent and the bell peppers should slightly soften.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

**Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Broth**

* Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and chicken broth. Stir to combine. The liquid should cover the vegetables adequately. If not, add a little more broth.
* Add the dried Italian herbs, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to distribute the seasonings.

**Step 4: Simmer the Stew**

* Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to soften.

**Step 5: Add the Summer Squash and Sausage**

* Add the diced summer squash and the cooked sausage to the pot. Stir to combine. Adding the summer squash later prevents it from becoming too mushy.
* Cover and cook for another 5-10 minutes, or until the summer squash is tender-crisp. You want the squash to be cooked through but still retain a little bit of bite.

**Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!**

* Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to your liking.
* Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese (optional).
* Serve warm and enjoy! This stew is delicious on its own or with crusty bread for dipping.

Tips and Variations

This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to experiment and make it your own!

* **Add More Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach. Add carrots and celery along with the onion and bell pepper. Stir in spinach during the last few minutes of cooking until wilted.
* **Use Different Sausage:** Experiment with different types of sausage, such as chorizo or andouille sausage, for a different flavor profile.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth. Add a can of cannellini beans or chickpeas for added protein.
* **Add a Touch of Cream:** Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or sour cream at the end for a richer, creamier stew.
* **Spice it Up:** Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
* **Add Wine:** Deglaze the pot with a splash of dry white wine after sautéing the vegetables for added depth of flavor. Let the wine reduce slightly before adding the tomatoes and broth.
* **Thicken the Stew:** If you prefer a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir this slurry into the stew during the last few minutes of cooking until thickened.
* **Make it in a Slow Cooker:** Brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables as directed. Then, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Serving Suggestions

This Summer Squash and Sausage Stew is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

* **Crusty Bread:** Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful broth.
* **Garlic Bread:** Garlic bread is a classic accompaniment to stew.
* **Rice or Pasta:** Serve the stew over rice or pasta for a heartier meal.
* **Salad:** A simple green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich stew.
* **Grilled Cheese:** A grilled cheese sandwich is a comforting and delicious side.

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Per serving, based on 6 servings)

* Calories: Approximately 350-400
* Protein: 25-30g
* Fat: 20-25g
* Carbohydrates: 20-25g

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

Enjoy Your Summer Squash and Sausage Stew!

This recipe is a celebration of summer flavors. The combination of sweet summer squash, savory sausage, and aromatic herbs creates a truly satisfying and delicious meal. Enjoy making and sharing this stew with your family and friends! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations to find your perfect version. Happy cooking!

More Summer Recipes to Try

If you loved this Summer Squash and Sausage Stew, here are some other summer recipes you might enjoy:

* Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado and Lime
* Watermelon and Feta Salad with Mint
* Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
* Peach and Burrata Salad
* Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Pineapple Salsa

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

**Q: Can I use frozen summer squash?**
A: Yes, you can use frozen summer squash. Thaw it before adding it to the stew to prevent it from making the stew watery. However, fresh summer squash will provide a better texture.

**Q: Can I make this stew ahead of time?**
A: Yes, this stew can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors often meld together even more overnight. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

**Q: Can I freeze this stew?**
A: Yes, this stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

**Q: What can I substitute for chicken broth?**
A: You can use vegetable broth or bone broth as a substitute for chicken broth. Vegetable broth will result in a vegetarian stew, while bone broth will add more richness and nutrients.

**Q: Can I use different types of sausage?**
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage, such as chorizo, andouille sausage, or even chicken or turkey sausage.

**Q: How do I prevent the summer squash from becoming mushy?**
A: Add the summer squash during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking time. This will ensure that it cooks through but still retains a little bit of bite.

**Q: What if I don’t have Italian herbs?**
A: You can use a combination of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary as a substitute for Italian herbs.

**Q: Can I add beans to this stew?**
A: Yes, you can add beans to this stew. Cannellini beans or chickpeas are a great addition and will add more protein and fiber.

**Q: Is this stew gluten-free?**
A: This stew is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free sausage and broth. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

**Q: Can I make this stew in a pressure cooker?**
A: Yes, you can make this stew in a pressure cooker. Brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables as directed. Then, add the remaining ingredients (except for the summer squash). Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release. Add the summer squash and cook for another 2 minutes on high pressure, followed by a quick pressure release.

**Q: The stew is too watery. How can I thicken it?**
A: You can thicken the stew by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir this slurry into the stew during the last few minutes of cooking until thickened. Alternatively, you can simmer the stew uncovered for a longer period to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

**Q: Can I add other spices?**
A: Yes, feel free to add other spices to your liking. Smoked paprika, cumin, or chili powder can add interesting flavor dimensions to the stew.

This Summer Squash and Sausage Stew is a versatile and delicious recipe that you can enjoy all summer long. With its simple ingredients and easy instructions, it’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy a taste of summer in a bowl!