Slow-Cooker Sausage, Peppers and Onions

Can I just tell you that this meal is RIDICULOUSLY easy?! It only takes 15 min to prepare to put into the freezer and is a meal your whole family will enjoy. When you are ready to eat it, just put the frozen contents directly into the slow-cooker and set it before you head out for the day. The sweetness of the sausages and tangy-ness of the tomatoes combine to make an excellent topper for spaghetti squash "noodles". You don't have time for that, either? Well, today's your lucky day because I'm also sharing with you instructions on how to pre-cook and freeze your spaghetti squash for easy reheating. It is a Whole30 busy weeknight meal that makes your reset feel like a breeze. You're welcome.

SLOW-COOKER SAUSAGE, PEPPERS, AND ONIONS Prep Time: 15min
Serves 4
Ingredients
*    One 12 oz package of sausages (I use Aidell's Chicken & Apple Sausage)
*    1 10 oz bag of frozen peppers (I use Woodstock Organic Tri-Colored Peppers)
*    1 small onion, diced
*    15 oz can crushed tomatoes
*    1 TBS dried Italian herb mix
*    5 cloves garlic, minced
*    Salt and pepper to taste
*    Half a large Spaghetti Squash

Instructions
1.    In a medium bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes with the garlic and herbs. Cut the sausage into bite-sized chunks and mix it with the tomato mixture. If freezing for later, place the sausage and tomato mixture into a freezer bag for future use. If making right now, proceed to step 2.
2.    Place half the peppers and onions (unthawed) into the bottom of your slow cooker. Dump the sausage mixture on top, then the rest of the peppers and onions. Add salt and pepper and cook on low for 6 hours. Serve with Spaghetti Squash "Noodles" (recipe follows).

Make Ahead Directions: When ready to cook, just dump everything into the crock pot, no need to thaw first. You may need to add an hour or so to the total cook time.

MICROWAVE SPAGHETTI SQUASH
1.    Cut a spaghetti squash lengthwise with a sharp knife. Remove and discard seeds.
2.    Brush inside surface of squash with melted fat (ghee, or oil of your choice) and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3.    Put squash face down in a microwave-safe glass container, and cover it with the lid.
4.    Microwave on HIGH for 8-12 minutes. Check on it periodically to see if the flesh is soft. When it is, it is done cooking.
5.    Let the squash rest for 10 minutes then scrape up the "noodles" from the shell with a fork.

Make Ahead Directions: You can freeze cooked spaghetti squash flesh in muffin cups or freezer bags for use later. They store for up to 6-8 months before their quality begins to decline. When ready to eat it, partially thaw your spaghetti squash. Take the partially defrosted strands and place them into your steamer. Steam it, stirring occasionally for 5-10 minutes, until the fibers are warmed through.