As winter fades and spring breathes new life into the Tahoe Basin, there’s something about the season’s arrival that stirs the appetite — not just for lighter meals, but for vibrant flavors and outdoor cooking. The warmer weather signals the perfect time to dust off the grill and celebrate the season by cooking up fresh spring vegetables from Lake Tahoe Markets over open flame.

Spring is synonymous with freshness. After months of hearty root vegetables and comfort food, the bounty of spring.  Grilling, often reserved for summer fare, adds a smoky depth to these delicate veggies without overpowering their natural flavor. It’s the perfect pairing: the brightness of spring produce with the char-kissed magic of the grill.

So, this spring, skip the oven and light the grill. Let spring’s freshest flavors take center stage — smoky, sizzling, and full of life.  These Sausage Kabobs are easy, flavorful, and packed with goodness! Smoked sausage, bell peppers, red onion, and crimini mushrooms are perfectly seasoned for a quick, tasty meal.

Sausage Kabobs

1 package smoked sausage, cut into 1-inch pieces

3 bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces

½ large red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces

10 crimini mushrooms

4 Tbsp. olive oil

2 tsp. dried oregano

1 Tbsp. dried parsley flakes

½ tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. paprika

1 tsp. salt

½ tsp. pepper

Vegetable oil for grilling

Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 450–500°F). If using wooden skewers, first soak them in water for 20–30 minutes.  In a large bowl, add all the cut veggies and sausage. Add olive oil, oregano, parsley, garlic powder, paprika, and salt and pepper (or to taste). Gently stir to combine everything.  

Add the seasoned vegetables and sausage to the soaked skewers.  Soak a paper towel in vegetable oil, roll it up, and using tongs, rub it along cleaned and completely heated grill grates. Place the skewers on the grill and close. Cook for 3–4 minutes, then flip to the other side and cook another 3–4 minutes or until veggies and sausage are lightly charred. Remove, and if desired, serve with some fresh chopped parsley. Enjoy as is or with a sauce.

–Jill Rozier

Lake Tahoe Markets

www.LakeTahoeMarkets.com