Grilled Sausage with Onions and Peppers

Grilled sausage with onions and peppers is a quintessential dish that combines the savoury richness of sausages with the sweetness of caramelised onions and the vibrant flavours of bell peppers. This recipe is a staple for summer barbecues, casual gatherings, or a hearty family dinner, offering a delightful blend of textures and tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity: Requires minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation.
• Versatility: Suitable for various occasions, from weeknight dinners to festive cookouts.
• Customisable: Easily adaptable with different types of sausages and vegetables.
• Balanced Flavours: The combination of savoury sausages with sweet onions and peppers creates a harmonious taste profile.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in approximately 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Italian sausages (hot or mild)
• Red bell peppers
• Green bell peppers
• Yellow bell peppers
• Red onions
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Dried Italian seasoning (optional)
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the Grill: Set your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Slice the bell peppers and onions into strips. In a large bowl, toss them with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and, if desired, Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes for added flavour.
3. Grill the Sausages: Place the sausages directly on the grill. Cook for about 4 minutes per side, or until they are browned and cooked through.
4. Grill the Vegetables: While the sausages are cooking, place the seasoned vegetables in a grill basket or on a sheet of aluminium foil on the grill. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and slightly charred, approximately 7–10 minutes.
5. Serve: Remove the sausages and vegetables from the grill. Serve the sausages on a platter topped with the grilled onions and peppers. Optionally, serve with crusty rolls or over a bed of rice or pasta.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Sausage Types: Substitute Italian sausages with bratwurst, chorizo, or chicken sausages to vary the flavour profile.
• Vegetable Additions: Incorporate other vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for added variety.
• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the vegetable mix for an extra spicy version.
• Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme over the finished dish for a fresh, aromatic touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Allow leftovers to cool to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for 1–2 minutes.

FAQs

What type of sausage is best for this recipe?

Italian sausages, either hot or mild, are traditional for this dish. However, you can use any sausage variety you prefer, such as bratwurst, chorizo, or chicken sausages.

Can I cook this recipe without a grill?

Yes, you can prepare this dish using a stovetop grill pan or by roasting the sausages and vegetables in the oven at 200°C (400°F) until cooked through and slightly charred.

How do I prevent the sausages from bursting on the grill?

Prick the sausages a few times with a fork before grilling to allow steam to escape, which helps prevent bursting.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can grill the sausages and vegetables ahead of time and reheat them when ready to serve. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.

What sides pair well with grilled sausage, onions, and peppers?

This dish pairs well with sides like crusty bread, roasted potatoes, pasta, or a fresh green salad.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Prepare the sausages and vegetables in advance and store them in portioned containers for easy meals throughout the week.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, place the cooled sausages and vegetables in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How can I add more flavour to the vegetables?

Marinate the sliced vegetables in olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and your choice of herbs and spices for 30 minutes before grilling to enhance their flavour.

Are there vegetarian alternatives for this recipe?

You can substitute the sausages with plant-based sausage alternatives or grilled tofu for a vegetarian version.

What is the best way to reheat this dish?

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through to maintain the texture of the sausages and vegetables. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish for 1–2 minutes.

Conclusion

Grilled sausage with onions and peppers is a versatile and flavourful dish that is both easy to prepare and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or seeking a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers a delightful combination of savoury and sweet flavours that are sure to please any palate.

Sources

Print