Roasted Red Pepper and Sausage Fusilli
This roasted red pepper and sausage fusilli dish is a quick and easy weeknight meal that's packed with flavor. The roasted red peppers add a sweet and smoky flavor, while the sausage provides a hearty and savory element. The dish is finished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese, which brighten up the flavors and add a touch of elegance. Best of all, this dish can be made in under 30 minutes, so it's perfect for busy weeknights.
The inspiration for this dish came to me one night when I was trying to figure out what to make for dinner. I had some leftover roasted red peppers in the fridge, and I wanted to use them up. I also had some Italian sausage in the freezer, so I decided to combine the two. The result was this delicious and easy fusilli dish. I've made it many times since then, and it's always a hit with my family and friends.
Roasted Red Pepper and Sausage Fusilli Roasted Red Pepper and Sausage Fusilli Roasted Red Pepper and Sausage Fusilli Roasted Red Pepper and Sausage Fusilli
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 25 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 pound fusilli pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into strips
  • 1/2 pound vegetarian Italian sausage, sliced
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Toss bell peppers and sausage with olive oil and spread on a baking sheet.
  3. Roast in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and sausage is cooked through.
  4. Cook pasta according to package directions.
  5. Drain pasta and add to a large bowl.
  6. Add roasted vegetables and sausage to the bowl and toss to combine.
  7. Stir in basil and Parmesan cheese, if desired.
  8. Serve immediately.
Why It Works
  • The combination of roasted red peppers and Italian sausage is a classic flavor pairing. The sweet and smoky flavors of the peppers complement the savory and hearty flavors of the sausage perfectly.
  • Roasting the red peppers intensifies their flavor and gives them a slightly caramelized texture. This adds a depth of flavor to the dish that you wouldn't get if you used raw peppers.
  • The fresh basil and Parmesan cheese add a touch of brightness and elegance to the dish. The basil adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor, while the Parmesan cheese adds a salty and nutty flavor.
  • This dish is quick and easy to make. It can be made in under 30 minutes, so it's perfect for busy weeknights.