Sausage and Vegetable Bolognese

Ingredients

• 2 lbs. mild Italian sausage (or hot if you like it spicy!)
• 1 carrot
• 1 onion
• 3 cloves garlic
• 2 celery stalks
• 1 cup frozen spinach
• 3 cups fresh cherry tomatoes
• 2 cans diced tomatoes
• 1 cup water
• 1 Tbsp. oregano
• 1 1/2 Tbsp. brown sugar
• salt and pepper to taste

Directions

In a large pan, brown the sausage. Meanwhile, peel, chop, slice, and dice the tomatoes, onion, carrot, celery, and garlic. Add the celery, carrot, frozen spinach, and onion to the pan while the sausage is still cooking through. Toss together and cook for 3-5 minutes making sure to break up the spinach as it thaws.

Add the halved tomatoes and garlic and cook until the tomatoes begin to break down.

Add the canned tomatoes and water. Stir together and bring to a low simmer. Add the brown sugar and oregano.

Cover and simmer on low for 20 minutes. Remove lid and simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Give it a taste and add salt and pepper at your discretion. Serve over fettucine with lots of parmesan on top!

Wine Pairing Suggestion

Paul Hobbs Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

***Serves 4-6