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Healthy Recipe, Quick Jambalaya

Jambalaya is not a dish we typically think of as quick or particularly healthy, but it can be both of those things without losing any of its Creole character as demonstrated by this lightened-up recipe. It’s inspired by one created by Louisiana-born food writer Vallery Lomas and featured in “Easy Weeknight Dinners” curated by New York Times Cooking editor in chief Emily Weinstein. It’s hearty enough to warm your belly without weighing you down, and ready in under 30 minutes. Serves 4-6. – Susan Puckett

Ingredients

· 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

· 1 medium yellow onion, diced

· 2 pork, chicken, or vegan andouille sausages (6 ounces), diced

· 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced

· 1 green bell pepper, diced

· 4 garlic cloves, minced

· 1 tablespoon tomato paste

· 8 ounces peeled medium shrimp, thawed if frozen (optional)

· 2 cups cooked long-grain white rice

· 1 ½ teaspoons Creole seasoning, plus more, to taste

· Kosher salt and black pepper to taste

· 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes

· Tabasco or other hot sauce, to taste and for serving

· 2 or 3 sliced scallions

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring often, until softened, 5 to 7 minutes. Add the sausage and cook until starting to brown, about 5 minutes.

2. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil, then add the celery and bell pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Stir in the tomato paste and cook until very fragrant.

3. If using shrimp, add it to the pan and cook for a minute or two until they begin to turn pink but aren’t completely cooked through.

4. Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked rice. Sprinkle with 1 ½ teaspoons of the Creole seasoning and stir in the diced tomatoes. Taste and add more Creole seasoning, if desired, along with salt, pepper, and hot sauce to your liking. Cook a few minutes longer until warmed through.

5. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of sliced scallions and pass the hot sauce at the table.

Susan Puckett is an Atlanta-based food writer and cookbook author.

Try These Healthy Snacks While You Wait:

These snacks are not only tasty but also packed with the nutrients you need to keep you fueled and energized. Whether you’re waiting for your cauliflower and broccoli parmesan to be ready or looking for something healthy to enjoy throughout the day, these options are perfect to keep you on track!

Roasted Chickpeas or Spiced Almonds: Perfect for a crunchy, flavorful protein boost.
Cottage Cheese or Greek Yogurt: Low in carbs and high in protein, with a creamy texture that pairs well with fruit or veggies.
Fresh Veggies: Bell peppers, cucumbers, or celery sticks with a light dip like hummus or guacamole.
Turkey or Chicken Breast Slices: Lean protein that’s easy to grab and snack on while you prep your meal.

Client Spotlight: Aida’s 500 Punch Power Session! 🥊

We’re thrilled to feature Aida, one of our inspiring Agestrong clients, putting in a powerhouse session with 500 punches! Guided by our dedicated strength and mobility coach, Nick Jackson, Aida brought her A-game to every punch, showcasing incredible energy and determination.

At Agestrong Fitness, we’re proud to empower active adults like Aida to stay strong, agile, and ready to take on life’s challenges—one punch at a time!

Let’s give Aida a virtual high-five for her dedication and a big shoutout to Coach Nick for the expert guidance! 🥳

Keep inspiring us, Aida! 💪

Hear what others are saying!

I’ve been working out with Benji 1:1 for over a year now. My overall fitness is far better than it was. Balance, agility and strength are all improved. And he makes it fun!

-Juli F.