Weeknights become infinitely better with a patio on hand. Don't you think? The patio atmosphere offers a magical advancement to dinners, especially simple menus that otherwise seem to be a mindless routine. This one-pan sauté of Italian flavors can be infinitely elevated with sunlight, a table and a glass of sauvignon blanc. Put yourself in vacation mode -- even on a Tuesday after work -- and enjoy this new staple supper!
Makes 4 servings
1 pound mild Italian chicken sausage, crumbled 1 pound brussels sprouts, halved lengthwise 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/4 cup chicken broth 1 can white cannelloni beans, rinsed and drained 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1. In a large pot (Le Creuset, if you have it), heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add brussels sprouts face-down in an even layer, and cook untouched for 4-5 minutes, until beginning to brown.
2. Move brussels over to one side of the pan, and add sausage and garlic to the other side. Continuously stir sausage with a wooden spoon until cooked through and beginning to brown, about 5 more minutes. Season with salt and red pepper flakes.
3. Add chicken broth and simmer for 5 minutes, scraping browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Turn heat to low and gently fold in cannelloni beans. Serve immediately with parmesan.