Sausage And Peppers

This sausage and peppers recipe is an Italian-American classic. It features sweet bell peppers served with Italian sausage. It can be enjoyed on its own or in a bun and you can make it mild or spicy according to your preference.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 Italian sausages (mild or spicy)
• 3 bell peppers, sliced into strips
• 1 medium sweet onion, sliced
• 6 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1/2 cup red wine (or chicken broth or water)
• 15 ounces fire-roasted tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons dried basil (or fresh, chopped)
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano (or fresh, chopped)
• 1 tablespoon spicy red pepper flakes (optional for a spicier version)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Sausages

1. Heat Oil:
   Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Brown Sausages:
   Add the Italian sausages and brown them on each side for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally. Remove the sausages and set them aside.

2. Cook the Vegetables

1. Add Peppers and Onions:
   Return the pan to medium heat and add the sliced bell peppers and onions. Cook them down for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until they soften and develop a bit of char.
2. Add Garlic:
   Add the chopped garlic and cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant.

3. Deglaze the Pan

1. Add Liquid:
   Pour the red wine (or white wine, broth, or water) into the pan to deglaze it. Scrape up any flavorful brown bits from the bottom. Cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce the liquid.

4. Add Tomatoes and Herbs

1. Combine Ingredients:
   Add the fire-roasted tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste.
2. Return Sausages:
   Nestle the browned sausages back into the pan with the peppers and sauce.

5. Simmer

1. Cook Through:
   Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until the sausages are cooked through and the mixture becomes saucy.

6. Serve

1. Plate and Enjoy:
   Serve the sausage and peppers hot. They can be enjoyed on their own, over pasta, or stuffed into a bun for a delicious sandwich.

Additional Tips

• Storage: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over medium heat before serving.
• Freezing: The sausage and peppers can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Customization: You can customize the dish by adding other vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and texture.
• Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or over a bed of creamy polenta.

Enjoy this easy and flavorful Sausage and Peppers recipe, perfect for a satisfying meal any day of the week!