Spicy Sausage And Peppers
A flavorful spicy sausage and peppers dish featuring smoked and hot sausages, vibrant peppers, and fresh basil, perfect for a hearty and zesty meal any time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the smoked sausage into 1/2-inch lengths.
- Cut the green and red peppers into long 1/2-inch strips, cook in boiling water for 1 1/2 minutes, drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
- Halve the large onion and cut each half into 8 wedges; set aside.
- In a skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the sausage pieces to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the onion wedges and cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
- Pour in the red wine and cook until slightly reduced, about 2 minutes.
- Add the drained peppers to the skillet, season with ground red pepper and black pepper to taste, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until heated through.
- Tear the fresh basil leaves and stir into the dish just before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using a combination of sweet and spicy sausages. Substitute chicken sausage for a lighter option, or use Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. Fresh garlic can be replaced with garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh is recommended for the best taste. Be mindful of the heat level by adjusting the amount of ground red pepper to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Spicy Sausage and Peppers over a bed of rice or alongside crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or roasted vegetables. For a comforting meal, consider serving it with mashed potatoes. This hearty dish is perfect for a casual gathering or a weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in 30-second intervals until hot. This dish also freezes well; just ensure it's fully cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Sausage And Peppers contains roughly 354 calories, with 15g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (162% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (108% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (94% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. At about 354 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just reheat gently before serving. If you're short on time, consider preparing the ingredients in advance and cooking them just before mealtime.
What can I use instead of red wine?
If you prefer not to use red wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option. Alternatively, grape juice or a mixture of vinegar and water can mimic the acidity of the wine. Just keep in mind that the flavor will slightly change, but it will still be delicious.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This Spicy Sausage and Peppers recipe is great for meal prep. Portion it into individual containers and refrigerate or freeze for quick meals throughout the week. Just reheat as needed, and you'll have a tasty, filling dish ready to go anytime!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).