A bold and rustic fusion of spicy sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and rich tomato-wine sauce, tossed with wide ribbons of pasta for the ultimate trattoria-style experience.
1medium white or yellow onionthinly sliced into strips
1/2teaspooncrushed red chili flakesoptional, for added heat
1poundItalian sausagespicy or mild, with casings removed
1tablespoonextra olive oilfor sautéing vegetables
3garlic clovesfinely chopped or minced
1can14.5 ounces crushed tomatoes
1/4cupchopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/4cupfinely chopped fresh basil leaves
1/2cupdry white winesuch as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
Salt and freshly ground black pepperto season as needed
8ounceswide-cut pastasuch as pappardelle or fettuccine
1red bell peppercut into thin strips
1green bell pepperjulienned
1yellow bell peppersliced into ribbons
Freshly grated Parmesan cheesefor garnish
Instructions
Bring a generously salted pot of water to a rolling boil. Cook the pasta according to the directions on the package until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until fully browned and no longer pink. Transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.
In the same skillet, pour in the second tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced onions and all three varieties of bell peppers. Cook, stirring occasionally, for roughly 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Add the minced garlic and, if using, the crushed red pepper flakes. Continue to cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Deglaze the pan by pouring in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. Let the mixture simmer for about 2 to 3 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off.
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, giving the flavors time to come together.
Incorporate the cooked pasta into the sauce, tossing until each strand is coated. Add the fresh parsley and basil, stirring well to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve the pasta hot, topped with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and additional herbs, if desired.
Notes
For a more intense flavor, allow the sauce to simmer longer before adding the pasta. Adjust red pepper flakes to your heat preference.