Maple Dijon Kielbasa Bites are the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory—all in a quick and healthy dish. Made with lean turkey kielbasa and a flavorful glaze of Dijon mustard and pure maple syrup, these bites are packed with taste but light on calories. They’re an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping, taking just minutes to prepare without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re aiming to eat clean or simply want something satisfying that won’t derail your goals, these bites hit the spot.
Ingredients
- 6 oz turkey kielbasa, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until fully combined. Set aside.
- Slice the turkey kielbasa into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
- Heat the olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Add the kielbasa slices to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes on one side until lightly browned.
- Flip the kielbasa slices and cook for another 2–3 minutes until both sides are nicely browned.
- Reduce the heat to low. Pour the maple Dijon sauce over the cooked kielbasa in the skillet.
- Stir and toss the slices to coat them evenly in the sauce. Simmer for 1–2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and glazes the kielbasa.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 160
Protein (g): 10
Fat (g): 10
Carbohydrates (g): 8
Fiber (g): 0
Sugar (g): 5
Sodium (mg): 550
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover Maple Dijon Kielbasa Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 2 months. To prevent sticking when freezing, place the bites on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen before transferring to a container.
Reheating Instructions
For the best texture and flavor, reheat the bites in a skillet over medium heat for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until hot. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may result in a rubbery texture.
Ingredient Swaps & Enhancements
To boost the nutritional profile while keeping the recipe paleo-friendly, consider adding chopped bell peppers or zucchini to the skillet — both increase fiber, antioxidants, and micronutrient content. For added protein, serve the kielbasa bites alongside a simple egg scramble or over a bed of cauliflower rice. Swapping turkey kielbasa for a nitrate/nitrite-free chicken or beef kielbasa made with clean ingredients can also enhance the dish while maintaining paleo compatibility.
