The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—juicy Italian sausages paired with tender, sweet bell peppers and onions create a comforting and flavorful combination. The caramelization of the vegetables adds a touch of sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the savory, slightly spiced sausage. Whether served in a crusty hoagie roll for a satisfying sandwich or enjoyed as a standalone dish, this meal is a delicious and filling choice for any occasion. Plus, the option to add tomatoes gives it a saucy twist, offering even more depth and richness.
Ingredients:
- 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot, depending on preference)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 bell peppers (one red, one yellow), sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional for a saucy version)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional for garnish)
- 4 hoagie rolls or crusty bread (optional for serving)
Instructions:
- Cook the Sausage:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan. Once hot, add the sausages. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until browned. The sausages don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage. Remove them from the pan and set aside. - Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced bell peppers and onions. Cook for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and start to caramelize. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. - Season and Add Tomatoes (Optional):
If you prefer a saucy dish, stir in the diced tomatoes at this point. Add the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. - Return the Sausage to the Pan:
Place the browned sausages back into the skillet, nestling them among the peppers and onions. Cover the skillet and let everything cook together for about 10-12 minutes, until the sausages are fully cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F) and the flavors combine beautifully. - Serve:
Serve the sausage, peppers, and onions over hoagie rolls for a classic sandwich or alongside crusty bread for a more rustic presentation. For a lower-carb option, simply serve it as is, garnished with fresh basil if desired. - Garnish (Optional):
Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped basil just before serving to add a fresh, aromatic touch. -
Tips:
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can cook the sausages and veggies ahead of time and simply reheat them together before serving.
- Variations: Try using turkey or chicken sausages for a lighter version. You can also mix in other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to add more texture and flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted potatoes to round out the meal.
