Zesty Shrimp & Sausage Jambalaya

Ingredients:

1 lb smoked sausage (substitute with chicken sausage for a lighter option)

1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined (or use firm tofu for a vegetarian twist)

1 cup longgrain white rice

1 medium onion, chopped

1 bell pepper (any color), chopped

2 stalks celery, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), undrained

4 cups chicken broth (substitute with vegetable broth for a meatfree version)

2 tsp Cajun seasoning

1 tsp dried thyme

1 tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for added spice)

Salt & black pepper to taste

2 tbsp olive oil

2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and brown for about 5 minutes.

2. Toss in the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until veggies are tender, around 5 to 7 minutes.

3. Stir in diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, rice, Cajun seasoning, thyme, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.

4. Lower the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes, or until rice is fluffy and liquid is absorbed.

5. Add shrimp and cook for 5 more minutes, until they’re pink and cooked through.

6. Garnish with green onions and parsley before serving.

Tips:

Want to spice it up? Add extra cayenne or your favorite hot sauce.

For a quicker option, use precooked shrimp and add them in the last 2 minutes to just warm through.

Store leftovers in the fridge for a perfect meal prep!

Get ready to dig into this flavorful and vibrant jambalaya! Enjoy every zesty bite!