Tuscan Sausage Ravioli

I have been trying to eat more vegetables and healthier.  Not an easy thing to do because I love carbs, cheese and butter.  Who doesn't right?  I came up with this recipe because I love Italian food.  Love it.  I wanted something really good for me and simple to make.  I had some mild homemade italian sausage in the freezer, a fridge full of veggies and some fresh cheese ravioli that my husband picked up at Sams.  The result, Tuscan Sausage Ravioli.  I hope you like it.

3 Tbs olive oil
2 Tbs minced fresh garlic
1 medium yellow onion chopped bite size
2 yellow bell peppers chopped bite size
1 qt. sweet grape tomatoes
1 can diced tomatoes in juice (I use Cento)

1 tsp minced thyme

1 tsp dry basil (when in season, use fresh, 1/2 Cup chiffonad)

1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

1 1/2 lb mild Italian sausage cut in bite sized pieces on the bias

1-2 lbs prepared cheese ravioli

Parmesean cheese to garnish

In heavy skillet, over medium flame, heat olive oil until shimmering.  Add garlic and saute.  Add onion, bell pepper and let sweat until half way tender.  Add your herbs, salt and red pepper flakes. Add sausage and grape tomatoes and continue to saute.  When veggies are nearly tender and sausage is nearly done, add can of diced tomatoes with it's juices.  Let thicken and simmer.

Prepare ravioli according to package.  Drain.

Arrange 3 or 4 large ravioli on plate and smother with sauce.  Garnish with parmesean cheese.

Note:  You can use any meat you like in this dish.  Try with an high quality store bought italian sausage or chicken seasoned with italian herbs.  Delicioso!

Kiss the Cook!

Melissa