Italian Sausage and Peppers

A rustic Italian-American favorite featuring sliced sausage links sautéed with colorful bell peppers and onions, served over a bed of pasta for a hearty and flavorful meal.

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Ingredients:

For the Sausage and Peppers:

• 4 Italian sausage links (mild or hot), sliced into rounds

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 onion, thinly sliced

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

• 1 green bell pepper, sliced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 400g canned diced tomatoes (optional, for saucier version)

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

• 400g pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)

• Salt, for pasta water

For Serving:

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped

• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sear the Sausage
   Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables
   In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil, onion, and bell peppers. Sauté for 7–8 minutes until softened. Add garlic, oregano, and chili flakes, cooking for 1 more minute.
4. Combine and Simmer
   Return sausage to the skillet. Stir in diced tomatoes (if using) and simmer for 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Serve
   Plate pasta and top with sausage and peppers. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and sprinkle with Parmesan if desired.

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Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 680 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 62 g

• Fat: 32 g

• Protein: 34 g