Grilled sausages are a staple of backyard barbecues and picnics, bringing together people with the promise of simple, yet hearty and flavorful food. One of the great things about grilling sausages is the amazing aroma that fills the air as they cook, enticing and setting the mood for a delightful meal.
Grilled sausages are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways – in a bun with an array of condiments, sliced into a pasta or salad, or simply savored with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.
Grilling sausages perfectly requires a balance between a good char on the outside, which imparts a smoky flavor and a juicy, thoroughly cooked inside. Here, I will share a detailed recipe that outlines how to achieve the perfect grilled sausages:
Grilled Sausages Recipe
Ingredients:
- 8-10 fresh sausages (choose your favorite kind, such as Italian, Bratwurst, or Chorizo)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 sweet bell peppers, sliced
- 2 onions, sliced
- Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., parsley or cilantro)
Equipment:
- Grill (charcoal or gas)
- Grill tongs
- Basting brush
Instructions:
- Preparation: 1.1. Remove the sausages from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before grilling to allow them to come to room temperature. This ensures even cooking. 1.2. In a bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, dried herbs (if using), salt, and pepper to create a simple marinade.
- Preparing the Grill: 2.1. Preheat your grill on a medium-high setting. If using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to turn ashen before starting to grill. 2.2. Clean the grill grates with a grill brush to remove any previous residue.
- Grilling the Vegetables: 3.1. Toss the sliced bell peppers and onions in a bowl with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper. 3.2. Place the vegetables on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes each side or until they have nice grill marks and have softened. Remove them from the grill and set aside.
- Grilling the Sausages: 4.1. Using a basting brush, lightly coat the sausages with the marinade. 4.2. Place the sausages on the grill perpendicular to the grates to get nice grill marks. 4.3. Grill the sausages for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked through and have a nice char on the outside. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached at least 160°F (71°C) for pork sausages.
- Serving: 5.1. Allow the sausages to rest for a few minutes before serving. 5.2. Serve the grilled sausages with the grilled vegetables on the side. 5.3. Garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy with your favorite condiments like mustard, ketchup, or a spicy relish.
Tips:
- Rotate the sausages occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent them from bursting.
- For a spicy kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Grilled sausages pair wonderfully with a variety of sides including potato salad, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.
Enjoy your grilling session with this delicious and straightforward recipe that brings out the richness and flavors of the sausages, complemented by the sweetness of the grilled vegetables. It’s a meal that promises satisfaction and joyous moments around the grill!
