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Italian Sausage Peppers and Onions

Carly
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A Hearty Italian Feast: Sausage, Peppers, and Onions with a Flavorful Twist

Italian Sausage Peppers and Onions

This classic Italian dish of sausage, peppers, and onions gets a delightful upgrade with the addition of Marsala wine and fresh basil. Bursting with color, savory flavors, and a touch of sweetness, it's a perfect weeknight meal that's sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients:

  • The Savory Base:
    • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
    • 1 pound sweet Italian sausage (links or bulk)
    • 2 bell peppers (red, yellow, or a mix for vibrant color)
    • 2 yellow onions
  • The Aromatic Symphony:
    • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
    • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
    • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, a blend of oregano, thyme, and basil
    • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
    • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • The Rich Sauce:
    • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
    • 1 cup Marsala wine (or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option)
    • 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
    • Salt to taste (optional, adjust based on your preference)
    • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)

Instructions:

  1. Bring on the Sizzle: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage links (if using bulk sausage, crumble it into the pan) and cook until browned on all sides, approximately 7-10 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pan and drain any excess grease on paper towels.
  2. Sautéing the Veggies: While the pan is still hot, add the sliced onions and cook them until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Aromatic Infusion: Now comes the magic! Add the Italian seasoning, freshly chopped basil, and minced garlic to the pan with the onions. Sauté for another minute, allowing the fragrant aroma to fill your kitchen.
  4. Building the Sauce: Add the tomato paste, Marsala wine (or chicken broth), and diced tomatoes with their juices to the pan. Stir well to combine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. If you like a hint of spice, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes at this point.
  5. Sweet Pepper Symphony: Add the sliced bell peppers to the simmering sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper, if desired.
  6. The Grand Finale: Return the cooked Italian sausage back to the pan with the vegetables and sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and the peppers are tender-crisp.

Tips:

  • Spice it Up: For some extra heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes along with the Italian seasoning in step 3.
  • Veggie Variations: Feel free to experiment with different colored bell peppers, or add other vegetables like sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or chopped broccoli for extra variety.
  • Hearty Options: Serve this flavorful dish over mashed potatoes, rice, polenta, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
  • Sandwich Sensation: If you're looking for a handheld meal, toast hoagie rolls and scoop the sausage and pepper mixture inside for a delicious and satisfying sandwich.
  • Leftovers Love: This dish reheats beautifully, making it a perfect meal prep option for busy weekdays.
  • Wine Pairing: For a complete Italian experience, pair this dish with a glass of Chianti or another full-bodied red wine.

This recipe offers a delicious twist on the classic Italian sausage, peppers, and onions dish. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, it's a fantastic addition to your weeknight dinner repertoire. So, fire up the stove, gather your loved ones, and enjoy this flavorful feast!

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