Pasta with (Veggie) Bratwurst
Finally a good veggie bratwurst sausage has been made! Having strong Wisconsin ties, this was one food that I have really missed eating. The new vegetarian bratwurst by Boca fills the bill with great flavor. Cook it in beer, just like the real thing, to prepare it for this recipe.

• 12 - 16 oz. dried whole wheat pasta (I used 12 oz package of Pesto Gemelli by Eden Foods)
• 4 veggie sausage links (I used Boca Bratwurst found in the frozen food section of your grocery store) - cook in beer as per package directions and then slice into ~1/4 inch pieces
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• Zucchini - 1 medium cut into 1/4 inch slices
• Roasted red pepper - 1 whole sliced into 1/2 inch strips (purchase in a jar or see directions below)
• 2 cloves fresh garlic
• 1/2 large onion - cut into medium size pieces
• Broccoli (I used 1/2 of a 12 oz package of frozen broccoli florets and thawed them in the microwave ahead of time)
• Artichoke hearts, quartered - 1-10 ounce can, water packed
• 1 cup white wine
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 2 - 3 Tablespoon chopped fresh basil or 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Chopped fresh parsley (I use this to add color when using dried instead of fresh basil)
• 1/2 cup veggie *Parmesan* cheese (I use "Veggie Topping" (garlic/herb flavor) made by Galaxy Foods)
• Salt and pepper to taste (I didn't use any)

Directions:

Cook the brats in beer (instead of water) on the stovetop according to the package directions. Cut into ~1/4 inch slices. Cut up all veggies and herbs ready to cook. Have a serving bowl ready in which to mix the final dish. Start cooking the pasta.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Stir in the sausage, garlic, and onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sausage is starting to brown. Add in zucchini, roasted pepper, broccoli and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes. Stir in the wine and stock; bring to boil. Lower heat to medium; simmer until slightly reduced.

Toss the cooked pasta, basil, and cheese with the veggies, broth, and bratwurst. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Serves 4 generously. Serve with a mixed green salad and warm whole wheat bread for a complete meal.

Roasted Red Peppers: (Can use any color of peppers with this technique) Char the pepper over an open flame on your stovetop or under a hot broiler. Place peppers in a plastic or paper bag to sweat for 10-15 minutes. Remove from bag; scrape off the skin and seeds.