- Slice the Vegetables: On a cutting board, slice the bell peppers, zucchini, and onion. Keep the cherry tomatoes whole or halve them if they are large.
- Season the Veggies: In a large mixing bowl, toss the vegetables with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the veggies are evenly coated.
- Prepare the Sausage: Depending on your preference, you can leave the sausages whole or slice them into rounds. Slicing them will allow for quicker cooking and more surface area to crisp up.
Step 2: Air Fry the Veggies and Sausage
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
- Layer the Ingredients: Place the seasoned vegetables in the air fryer basket, spreading them out as evenly as possible. If you’ve left the sausages whole, place them on top of the vegetables. If you’ve sliced them, mix them with the veggies.
- Cook: Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The vegetables should be tender and slightly charred, and the sausages should be cooked through with a nice golden-brown color.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
- Check for Doneness: Before serving, ensure the sausages are fully cooked by cutting into one. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for poultry sausages and 160°F (71°C) for pork or beef sausages.
- Garnish: If desired, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve: Serve the veggies and sausage hot, either on their own or over a bed of rice, quinoa, or your favorite grain.
Tips for the Best Veggies and Sausage
- Veggie Variety: Feel free to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Broccoli, carrots, mushrooms, or Brussels sprouts are all great additions.
- Sausage Selection: Choose a sausage that complements your vegetables. Spicy Italian sausage adds a kick, while chicken apple sausage offers a hint of sweetness.
- Even Cooking: Cut vegetables into similar sizes to ensure they cook evenly in the air fryer.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a bit of heat.
- Lemon-Garlic Flavor: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the veggies before serving and add a bit of minced garlic for a zesty twist.
- Mediterranean Twist: Add olives and feta cheese after cooking for a Mediterranean-inspired dish.
Storing and Reheating
- Store: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: To reheat, place the veggies and sausage back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through.
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Veggies and Sausage recipe is the ultimate combination of ease, flavor, and nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option for busy days, this dish delivers a satisfying and delicious experience. The air fryer does all the hard work, leaving you with perfectly roasted vegetables and juicy, flavorful sausage. Give it a try, and it might just become your new go-to meal!