Homemade Italian Sausage with Dollops of Ricotta On the Great Greens Trio


Ingredients

For the Italian Sausage:

  • 1 lb ground pork (or a mix of pork and beef)
  • 1 tablespoon fennel seeds (crushed)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

For the Greens Trio:

  • 2 cups Collard Greens, chopped
  • 2 cups Mustard Greens, chopped
  • 2 cups Turnip Greens, Chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon juice (optional, for finishing)

For Serving:

  • Ricotta cheese

Instructions

  1. Make the Italian Sausage:
    • In a bowl, mix the ground pork with fennel seeds, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper until well combined.
    • Shape the mixture into small patties or meatballs.
  2. Cook the Sausage:
    • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
  3. Prepare the Greens Trio:
    • In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
    • Add the chopped spinach, kale, and arugula. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the greens are wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
  4. Assemble the Dish:
    • On a serving platter, place the sautéed greens. Top with the cooked sausage.
    • Add dollops of ricotta cheese over the sausage and greens.

Tips:

  • This dish pairs well with crusty bread.
  • Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices in the sausage to suit your taste.
, ,