Hearty Italian sausage and sweet pepper pasta recipe for vegans (NC) Start slow and simple if you’re looking to add plant-based offerings to your dinner repertoire. For example, this vegan take on a comfort-food favourite combines plant-based sweet Italian sausages with a handful of pantry staples. Vegan Italian Sausage and Sweet Pepper Penne Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 45 minutes Serves: 6 Ingredients:2 tbsp (30 mL) olive oil, divided1 pkg (400 g) PC plant-based sweet Italian sausage 2 onions, thinly sliced2 cloves garlic, minced1 each sweet red and yellow pepper, thinly sliced1 can (796 mL) no-salt-added diced tomatoes½ tsp (2 mL) each salt and black pepper 1/3 cup (83 mL) lightly packed fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped, plus additional for garnish 4 cups (1 L / ¾ lb / 340 g) dry penne Directions: 1. Heat 1 tbsp (15 mL) oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Cook sausages, turning frequently, until browned and cooked through; about 12 to 14 minutes. Transfer to cutting board. Set aside. 2. Heat remaining 1 tbsp (15 mL) oil in same skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions; cook, stirring occasionally until softened; about 3 to 5 minutes. Add garlic; cook, stirring often, until fragrant; about about 1 minute. Add sweet peppers; cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and tender-crisp; about 6 to 8 minutes. 3. Stir in diced tomatoes (with juices), salt and black pepper; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer; cook, stirring frequently, until sauce is thickened; about 18 to 20 minutes. 4. Slice sausages into ¾-inch (2 cm) thick rounds; stir into sauce. Cover and cook 5 minutes. Uncover; stir in basil. 5. Meanwhile, bring large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add pasta, stir occasionally until water returns to a boil. Cook according to package directions or until al dente or tender but firm; 11 to 12 minutes. Drain. 6. Divide pasta among serving plates or bowls. Top with sauce, dividing evenly. Sprinkle with basil. Tip: Nutritional yeast makes a great vegan alternative to grated Parmesan – try sprinkling it over top of your pasta before serving. Nutritional information per 2 cups: calories 400, fat 12 g, sodium 570 mg, carbohydrates 61g, dietary fibre 8 g, sugars 9 g, protein 16 g.www.newscanada.com
Hearty Italian sausage and sweet pepper pasta recipe for vegans
