Peppers and onions with Italian sausage

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same skillet, add more olive oil if necessary and heat over medium heat.
• Add the onions to the pan and sauté until they start to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
• Add the bell peppers and cook for another 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still slightly crisp.
• Add garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine the Sausage and Vegetables

• Return the sausage to the skillet with the peppers and onions. Stir everything together until the sausage is evenly mixed with the vegetables.
• Allow the mixture to cook together for an additional 3-5 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the sausage warm through.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

• Once everything is cooked and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Serve immediately.

Ways to Serve Peppers and Onions with Italian Sausage

This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed in many different ways. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• On a Sub Roll: For a classic take, serve the sausage and pepper mixture in a toasted sub roll for a delicious sandwich. Add some melted provolone or mozzarella cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
• With Rice or Polenta: Serve it over a bed of steamed rice or creamy polenta for a hearty and filling meal.
• In a Wrap: For a lighter option, wrap the sausage and pepper mixture in a soft tortilla to create a savory wrap or burrito.
• With Pasta: Toss the sausage and peppers with pasta for an Italian-inspired dish. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan for an extra touch of richness.
• On Its Own: If you’re looking for a low-carb or keto-friendly option, serve the dish as is with a side of salad or roasted vegetables.

Variations and Additions

While this Peppers and Onions with Italian Sausage recipe is delicious as written, you can make it your own with a few easy tweaks:

• Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the peppers and onions to add extra texture and flavor to the dish.
• Use Different Sausages: If you like a bit of variety, try using different types of Italian sausage such as turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even chorizo for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Add Tomatoes: For a saucier version, add a can of diced tomatoes to the pan and simmer for 10 minutes before serving. This creates a rich, savory sauce that’s perfect for serving over rice or pasta.
• Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a little heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño or chili pepper to the dish.

Tips for Perfect Peppers and Onions with Italian Sausage

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure your pan isn’t overcrowded when cooking the sausage or sautéing the vegetables. If needed, cook the sausage in batches to ensure it gets a good sear. Similarly, sauté the vegetables in batches if your pan is too small.
• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, opt for sweet Italian sausage and skip the red pepper flakes. For those who like spice, use hot Italian sausage or add more red pepper flakes and fresh chili peppers.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley adds a vibrant, herbaceous flavor to the dish. Add it just before serving for the best taste and color.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days.

Conclusion

Peppers and Onions with Italian Sausage is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any meal. Whether served as a sandwich, with rice, or on its own, this hearty and comforting recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. It’s quick, easy to make, and offers plenty of room for customization, making it a go-to dish for busy nights or casual gatherings.

With its savory sausage, tender peppers, and sweet onions, this dish delivers bold flavors in every bite. Try it today and experience why this simple combination of ingredients is a classic favorite!