Zucchini, Sausage, Tomato Garden Stew (Gluten Free)

Although it is summer, I enjoy this stew now and in the cooler seasons.  It is a great blend of garden vegetables and herbs.  I don't use a broth as I find the sausage, spices and herbs add lots of flavor. This is a quick stew to make on the stove but can also be combined into the crock pot for about 4 hours on high.

Ingredients (serves 6-8)

• 1 pound organic, gluten free sausage chopped
• 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 diced onion
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 jar tomato puree (or more diced tomatoes)
• 1-2 cups water (depending on desired consistency and freshness of tomatoes)
• 2 cups diced zucchini (green or yellow)
• 4 diced carrots
• 2 cups chopped spinach or kale
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon ground pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/4 cup fresh shredded basil
• 1/3 cup fresh shredded cilantro

Directions

1. In a large pot heat oil.  Fry onion until clear and soft (3 minutes,) add garlic and sausage.  
2. Continue to stir and fry until sausage is browned.
3. Add tomatoes, puree, water, zucchini, carrots, kale, salt, pepper, cayenne and bay leaves.
4. Bring to a boil and then simmer for 15 minutes or until carrots are tender.
5. Add basil and cilantro.  Cook another 3-5 minutes.
6. Remove bay leaves.
7. Serve.