Healthy Recipe: Chicken Sausage With Roasted Veggies

When you don’t have time to follow an intricate recipe, this no-brainer will never let you down. Lean chicken sausage is your secret weapon. Not only is it a no-fuss source of protein, but it’s also fully equipped with garlic and seasonings that can shrink your grocery list. This recipe is adapted from EatingWell. You can’t mess this one up. Serves 4.— Susan Puckett

Ingredients

• Nonstick cooking spray

• 2 large or 4 medium bell peppers, any color

• 1 large sweet onion, cut into thin wedges

• 1 pint grape tomatoes

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

• Salt and black pepper

• 1 (12-ounce) package Italian-flavored cooked chicken sausage, sliced diagonally into 1-inch pieces

• 1 or 2 tablespoons snipped fresh oregano or basil (optional)

• Toasted bread, rice, or your favorite grain for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Coat a large sheet pan with cooking spray. Add the peppers, onion, and tomatoes to the pan. Drizzle with the olive oil and balsamic vinegar, season with salt and pepper, toss to coat, and spread into a single layer. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to brown and char in places.

2. Remove the pan from the oven, push the vegetables to one side, and add the sausage to the other side. Return the pan to the oven for about 10 minutes more, until the sausage is lightly browned and heated through and the vegetables are very tender.

3. Give the mixture a stir and sprinkle with fresh oregano or basil, if desired. Serve with toasted bread, rice, or your favorite grain.

Why This Recipe Is Great for Senior Fitness

• Supports muscle health:Chicken sausage provides protein, an important nutrient for maintaining muscle as we age.

• Adds fiber and nutrients:Bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes contribute fiber and a variety of vitamins and minerals.

• Makes healthy eating easier:This one-pan meal is quick to prepare, easy to clean up, and simple to adapt with your favorite vegetables or grains.