Sausage & Bean One-Pot
Air Date: 3/10/2008
5 to 6 servings

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1 medium-sized onion, peeled, cut in half, and sliced
1 garlic clove, crushed
1/2 pound fresh Italian sausage
1/2 pound regular or reduced-fat fully cooked smoked sausage, sliced diagonally into 1/2-inch slices
1 (16-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1 (16-ounce) can chick peas, rinsed and drained
1 (14-1/2-ounce) can stewed tomatoes, undrained
2 tablespoons dry white wine (optional)
2 teaspoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Minced fresh parsley or sliced scallions for garnish (optional)
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In a large saucepan that has been coated with nonstick cooking spray, cook the onion and garlic over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the onion is softened.

Remove the Italian sausage from the casing and add to the saucepan. Cook and stir for 3 minutes. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the Italian sausage is cooked through and no pink remains.

Pour off the drippings then stir in the remaining ingredients except the parsley. Mix gently then cover and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Uncover and cook over medium-low heat for 5 to 10 minutes to blend the flavors. Garnish with the parsley or scallions, if desired, and serve.

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TIP: Get out the rice or noodles to serve with this, 'cause the sauce is the best part!