Sausage and Peppers: A Flavorful Recipe for Any Occasion
This mouthwatering sausage and peppers recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. It's incredibly versatile, adaptable to your spice preferences, and easy to make, even for beginner cooks. Let's dive into the delicious details!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a convenient choice for your meal planning.
- 1 lb Italian sausage: Choose sweet, hot, or a spicy blend to suit your taste. Removing the casings is optional, but it makes for a more evenly cooked dish.
- 2 large bell peppers: A mix of colors (red, green, yellow, or orange) adds visual appeal and diverse flavors. Slice them into strips about ½ inch wide.
- 1 large onion: Yellow onion is classic, but white or red onion would work well too. Slice it into similar sized strips as the peppers.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced or pressed garlic provides a pungent aroma and flavor boost.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A healthy fat that enhances the flavors of the vegetables and sausage.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic Italian herb that complements sausage and peppers beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon dried basil: Another fragrant Italian herb that adds depth of flavor.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste – season generously!
- Optional additions: Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat, or a splash of red wine for richness.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
This recipe is designed for simplicity and ease of execution. Follow these steps for perfectly cooked sausage and peppers:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
- Add the Italian sausage to the skillet and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. If using casings, ensure they are fully cooked.
Step 3: Add the Peppers and Seasonings
- Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet. Stir to combine with the sausage and onions.
- Sprinkle with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender-crisp. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the mixture becomes too dry, add a tablespoon or two of water.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious sausage and peppers hot, as is, or over pasta, rice, polenta, or crusty bread. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for the Best Sausage and Peppers:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning. If necessary, cook the sausage and peppers in batches.
- Adjust the seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your personal preferences.
- Add some heat: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve over rice, pasta, or with a side salad for a satisfying and balanced meal.
This sausage and peppers recipe is a testament to simple cooking done right. Its versatility, delicious flavor, and ease of preparation make it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!
