Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb Mazzafegati sausage
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
- 1 head of garlic
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Large skillet
- Tongs
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Cut the top off the head of garlic, exposing the cloves. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and wrap in aluminum foil. Place on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the garlic is soft and fragrant.
3. While the garlic is roasting, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Mazzafegati sausage and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Use tongs to transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the asparagus and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Once the garlic is done roasting, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and mash them with a fork.
6. Add the mashed garlic to the skillet with the asparagus and stir to combine.
7. To serve, arrange the Mazzafegati sausage on a platter and top with the roasted garlic and asparagus mixture.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 50-60 minutes
Temperature:
Oven temperature: 400°F
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 450
Fat: 35g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 25g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Mazzafegati sausage can be substituted with any other Italian sausage.
- Asparagus can be substituted with any other vegetable of your choice.
Variations:
- Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, to the roasted garlic and asparagus mixture for extra flavor.
- Top the dish with some grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to trim the asparagus before cooking to remove any tough ends.
- Use a fork to mash the roasted garlic cloves for a smoother texture.
- Serve with some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve on a platter with some fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
Fresh herbs, lemon wedges, grated Parmesan cheese.
Pairings:
This dish pairs well with a light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Chianti.
Suggested side dishes:
Crusty bread, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the asparagus is not cooking evenly, try cutting it into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the sausage to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Mazzafegati is a traditional Italian sausage made with pork liver and spices.
Flavor profiles:
This dish is savory, garlicky, and slightly sweet from the roasted asparagus.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as a main dish for a hearty dinner or as a side dish for a special occasion.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Italian