Sausage and Peppers

1. Cook the Sausage:

1. Brown Sausage: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook until browned on all sides, about 7-10 minutes. Remove the sausages from the skillet and set aside.
2. Slice Sausages: Once slightly cooled, slice the sausages into 1-inch pieces.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

1. Sauté Onions: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced onions and cook over medium heat until they are softened and beginning to caramelize, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Peppers: Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet and cook for another 5-7 minutes until they are tender.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Combine and Simmer:

1. Add Tomatoes and Wine: Add the diced tomatoes with their juices and the white wine to the skillet. Stir to combine.
2. Season: Add the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Simmer: Return the sliced sausages to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Serve:

1. Garnish: Garnish the sausage and peppers with chopped fresh basil or parsley.
2. Bread: Serve hot with slices of Italian bread on the side for soaking up the delicious sauce.
3. Wine: Pair with a glass of your favorite red or white wine to complement the meal.

Tips and Variations:

• Sausage Options: Use a mix of sweet and hot Italian sausages for a more complex flavor.
• Vegetable Additions: Add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for extra variety.
• Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by using hot Italian sausages and adding more red pepper flakes.
• Tomato Sauce: For a thicker sauce, use tomato sauce instead of diced tomatoes.
• Make-Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, as the flavors often improve with time.
• Grill Option: For a different texture, grill the sausages and peppers before combining them with the sautéed onions and other ingredients.

Sausage and Peppers is a classic Italian-American dish that brings together the robust flavors of Italian sausage and the sweetness of bell peppers. Enjoy this comforting meal with a loaf of crusty Italian bread and a glass of wine for a truly delicious dining experience. Buon appetito!