Pasta with Sausage, Red Peppers & Herbs

By HeatherS

I use Italian sausage in this recipe, but you can try any of the several different types that are available. Try a sausage you've never had before or replace the sausage with cubed chicken.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (500 g) penne
• 2 Tbsp (30 mL) olive oil
• 2 medium shallots, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 Italian sausages, sliced
• 1/2 cup (125 mL) vegetable stock
• one 14 oz (398 mL) can diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup (125 mL) light cream or heavy cream
• 2 Tbsp (30 mL) balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp (5 mL) dried dill
• 1/2 tsp (2 mL) dried basil
• l/2 tsp (2 mL) dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp (2 mL) sea salt
• l/2 tsp (2 mL) ground black pepper

Preparation

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta for 8-10 minutes, or until al dente.

While the pasta is cooking, heat the oil in a small pot. Gently saute the shallots and red bell pepper for 2 minutes. Add the sausage, stock, and tomatoes. Cook until sausage or chicken is cooked through. Add all of the remaining ingredients. Simmer the sauce for 5-6 minutes, or until it thickens.

Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Pour the sauce over the pasta. Serve immediately.