Are you craving a delicious and easy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This sweet and savory sausage and pineapple recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights. It’s a perfect blend of flavors – the salty, savory sausage complements the juicy sweetness of the pineapple beautifully, creating a truly unforgettable dish. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is perfect for you. It's a great example of how simple ingredients can create a surprisingly sophisticated and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your preference!)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (20 ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice for later use, if desired)
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup red wine vinegar for extra tang
Instructions:
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Brown the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the sausage from their casings and crumble them into the skillet. Cook, breaking up the sausage with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
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Add Pineapple and Bell Pepper: Stir in the drained pineapple chunks and red bell pepper. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the bell pepper is slightly tender.
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Simmer and Flavor: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Finishing Touches: Stir in the fresh cilantro, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If you like a tangier flavor, add the red wine vinegar at this point.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately over rice, quinoa, or couscous. This dish also makes a great topping for grilled chicken or fish.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Sausage and Pineapple:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the sausage, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will help ensure the sausage browns properly and doesn't steam. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the spice level: Use sweet Italian sausage for a milder flavor, or hot Italian sausage for a spicier kick. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Fresh vs. Canned Pineapple: While canned pineapple is convenient, feel free to use fresh pineapple if you prefer. Just be sure to chop it into similar sized pieces as the canned pineapple.
- Reserved Pineapple Juice: The reserved pineapple juice can add extra sweetness and flavor to the dish if you wish. Add a tablespoon or two towards the end of cooking, and adjust to your taste.
Variations:
- Add some heat: Include a chopped jalapeño pepper along with the other vegetables for an extra spicy kick.
- Tropical Twist: Incorporate a handful of chopped mango or papaya for a more tropical flavor profile.
- Protein boost: Add cooked shrimp or chicken to make this a more substantial meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe's nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a typical serving will offer a good source of protein from the sausage, vitamins and fiber from the vegetables, and natural sweetness from the pineapple. For precise nutritional values, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients and serving size.
This easy and delicious sausage and pineapple recipe is a perfect example of a quick dinner idea that's both flavorful and satisfying. It's a great way to enjoy a healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy this simple yet impressive dish!