Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cup corn kernels (3 ears completely cooked)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 oz sausage cooked, such as cajun sausage, andouille sausage, or smoked sausage
- 1 large red bell pepper diced
- 1 large zucchini large, sliced
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- fresh cilantro chopped
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Slice the cooked sausage into coins and toss them into the pan. Let them sear for about 5 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 3 minutes. The goal is a beautiful golden-brown crust. Remove the sausage to a plate, leaving some of the flavorful oil behind. If there’s too much grease, pour the extra into a small bowl to save for the veggies.
- Sauté the bell pepper: With the skillet still hot, add the diced red bell pepper. Let it cook for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it softens slightly and gets a bit of char. If the pan looks dry, drizzle in a little of that reserved sausage oil. Once done, transfer the pepper to the plate with the sausage.
- Cook the zucchini: Next, toss the zucchini slices into the skillet. Cook for about 3 minutes, letting them soften but still hold their shape. Again, add a splash of oil if needed to prevent sticking. Remove the zucchini to the plate with the rest of the cooked ingredients.
- Prep the corn: If you’re using fresh corn, slice the kernels off the cob with a sharp knife. It’s a simple step, but it makes all the difference.
- Bring it all together: Return the skillet to the stove and lower the heat. Add the sausage, bell pepper, zucchini, and corn kernels back into the pan. Toss everything together to combine, then drizzle in the reserved sausage oil for extra flavor. Sprinkle with chili powder and give it a good stir. Heat everything through for a minute or two.
- Finish with cilantro: Turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top. This final touch adds brightness and ties everything together.
Notes
How to serve this skillet meal
This dish shines on its own, but if you want to round it out, serve it over fluffy rice, quinoa, or even a bed of leafy greens for a lighter option. Garnish with extra cilantro and maybe a wedge of lime for a zesty kick. For an elegant touch, sprinkle some crumbled feta or grated Parmesan on top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: dinner