Summer Sausage Sensations: Delicious Recipes for Warm Weather
Summer sausage, with its distinctive smoky flavor and satisfyingly firm texture, is a year-round favorite, but it truly shines during the warmer months. Its versatility makes it perfect for picnics, barbecues, quick snacks, and even more elaborate meals. Unlike many deli meats, summer sausage boasts a longer shelf life, making it an ideal choice for outdoor adventures and gatherings where refrigeration might be limited. This article will explore a variety of creative and delicious recipes featuring summer sausage, providing detailed steps and instructions to help you elevate your summer cuisine.
## Understanding Summer Sausage
Before diving into the recipes, let’s briefly discuss what summer sausage actually is. Summer sausage is a type of cured sausage that typically contains beef, pork, or a combination of both. It’s seasoned with a blend of spices, often including garlic, mustard seed, and black pepper, and then fermented, dried, and smoked. This process not only imparts its characteristic flavor but also inhibits bacterial growth, allowing it to be stored without refrigeration for extended periods (hence the name “summer sausage”).
While different brands and varieties exist, the core characteristics remain the same: a slightly tangy, smoky flavor, a firm texture, and good keeping qualities. Some summer sausages incorporate cheese, jalapeños, or other ingredients to create unique flavor profiles. Regardless of the specific type, summer sausage is a convenient and flavorful ingredient to keep on hand.
## Recipe Ideas Featuring Summer Sausage
Now, let’s explore some exciting ways to incorporate summer sausage into your meals and snacks. These recipes range from simple appetizers to more substantial dishes, offering something for every taste and occasion.
### 1. Summer Sausage and Cheese Skewers
This is a classic and incredibly easy appetizer that’s always a crowd-pleaser. It requires minimal preparation and is perfect for picnics, parties, or a simple snack.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound summer sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
* 8 ounces cheddar cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
* 8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
* 1 cup cherry tomatoes
* Optional: Green olives, black olives, pickled onions
* Wooden skewers
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the ingredients:** Slice the summer sausage and cut the cheese into bite-sized pieces. If using olives or pickled onions, drain them well.
2. **Assemble the skewers:** Thread the summer sausage, cheese cubes, tomatoes, and any other desired ingredients onto the skewers in a pattern that you find appealing. For example, you could alternate summer sausage, cheddar, tomato, and olive.
3. **Arrange and serve:** Arrange the skewers on a platter and serve immediately. These can also be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of cheese for variety, such as pepper jack, Swiss, or provolone.
* Add fresh herbs like basil or rosemary for a pop of flavor.
* Serve with a variety of dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a spicy mayo.
* For a more substantial skewer, add chunks of cooked chicken or shrimp.
### 2. Summer Sausage Pizza
This recipe transforms your favorite pizza into a savory delight with the addition of summer sausage. It’s a fun and easy way to add a smoky kick to pizza night.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
* 1/2 cup pizza sauce
* 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
* 1/2 cup summer sausage, sliced into thin rounds
* 1/4 cup sliced red onion
* 1/4 cup sliced green bell pepper
* Optional: Mushrooms, black olives, jalapeños
* Olive oil
* Italian seasoning
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.
2. **Prepare the dough:** Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness and shape. Transfer the dough to a pizza peel or baking sheet.
3. **Add the sauce and cheese:** Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
4. **Add the toppings:** Arrange the summer sausage slices, red onion, and green bell pepper over the cheese. Add any other desired toppings, such as mushrooms, black olives, or jalapeños.
5. **Bake the pizza:** Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the toppings and sprinkle with Italian seasoning. Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone (or place the baking sheet in the oven). Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. **Slice and serve:** Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use a different type of cheese, such as provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
* Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
* Use a different type of pizza sauce, such as pesto or a creamy garlic sauce.
* Grill the pizza dough for a smoky flavor.
### 3. Summer Sausage and Cheese Dip
This creamy and cheesy dip is perfect for parties, game nights, or any occasion where you need a quick and easy appetizer. It’s warm, comforting, and packed with flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup sour cream
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/2 cup summer sausage, finely diced
* 1/4 cup chopped green onions
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Crackers, tortilla chips, or vegetables for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine the ingredients:** In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth and creamy. Stir in the cheddar cheese, summer sausage, green onions, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. **Bake or heat through:** Transfer the dip to a baking dish or oven-safe skillet. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is heated through and bubbly. Alternatively, you can heat the dip in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through.
3. **Serve:** Serve the hot dip with crackers, tortilla chips, or vegetables for dipping.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a can of diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel) for a spicier dip.
* Stir in some chopped jalapeños or pepper jack cheese for extra heat.
* Top the dip with a layer of crispy fried onions before baking.
* Use a slow cooker to keep the dip warm for a longer period of time.
### 4. Summer Sausage and Vegetable Frittata
This frittata is a hearty and flavorful breakfast, brunch, or lunch option. It’s packed with protein and vegetables, making it a healthy and satisfying meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 eggs
* 1/4 cup milk or cream
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 cup summer sausage, diced
* 1/2 cup chopped onion
* 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
* 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
* 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Whisk the eggs:** In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. **Sauté the vegetables and sausage:** Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the diced summer sausage and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until lightly browned.
4. **Pour in the eggs:** Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables and sausage in the skillet. Stir gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
5. **Bake the frittata:** Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the frittata. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the frittata is set and the top is golden brown.
6. **Serve:** Let the frittata cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add other vegetables, such as spinach, zucchini, or tomatoes.
* Use different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, feta, or goat cheese.
* Add herbs, such as parsley, chives, or thyme.
* Serve with a side of toast or a green salad.
### 5. Summer Sausage and Macaroni Salad
This classic macaroni salad gets a delicious twist with the addition of summer sausage. It’s a perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or potlucks.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound elbow macaroni
* 1 cup mayonnaise
* 1/4 cup milk or cream
* 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
* 1 tablespoon white vinegar
* 1 teaspoon sugar
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 cup summer sausage, diced
* 1/2 cup chopped celery
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
* 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the macaroni:** Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside to cool.
2. **Prepare the dressing:** In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk or cream, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. **Combine the ingredients:** Add the cooled macaroni, diced summer sausage, celery, red onion, and green bell pepper to the bowl with the dressing. Stir to combine well.
4. **Chill:** Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
5. **Serve:** Serve the macaroni salad chilled.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add hard-boiled eggs, chopped pickles, or sweet relish.
* Use a different type of pasta, such as rotini or shell pasta.
* Add a sprinkle of paprika or celery seed for extra flavor.
* Use a light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to reduce the fat content.
### 6. Summer Sausage and Bean Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting lunch. The summer sausage adds a smoky depth to this classic bean soup.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 cup chopped onion
* 1 cup chopped celery
* 1 cup chopped carrots
* 1 pound summer sausage, diced
* 8 cups chicken broth
* 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 (15-ounce) can great northern beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Sauté the vegetables and sausage:** Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the diced summer sausage and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until lightly browned.
2. **Add the remaining ingredients:** Add the chicken broth, kidney beans, great northern beans, diced tomatoes, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, to allow the flavors to meld.
3. **Serve:** Serve the soup hot with crusty bread or crackers.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add other vegetables, such as potatoes, corn, or green beans.
* Use different types of beans, such as black beans or pinto beans.
* Add a bay leaf to the soup while simmering and remove it before serving.
* Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or a dollop of pesto.
### 7. Grilled Summer Sausage and Pepper Sandwiches
A simple yet satisfying sandwich perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Grilling the summer sausage and peppers brings out their flavors, creating a delicious and easy meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 summer sausage links, sliced lengthwise
* 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
* 1 onion, sliced
* 4 hoagie rolls or buns
* Olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Mustard, mayonnaise, or other condiments
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the grill:** Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. **Grill the sausage and vegetables:** Brush the summer sausage slices, bell peppers, and onion slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill the sausage and vegetables for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the sausage is heated through and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
3. **Assemble the sandwiches:** Place the grilled sausage and vegetables on the hoagie rolls or buns. Add any desired condiments, such as mustard or mayonnaise.
4. **Serve:** Serve the sandwiches immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add cheese, such as provolone or mozzarella.
* Use different types of peppers, such as jalapeños or banana peppers.
* Grill the rolls or buns for a crispy texture.
* Add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes.
### 8. Summer Sausage Breakfast Burritos
Start your day with these hearty and flavorful breakfast burritos. The summer sausage adds a smoky kick to the classic breakfast burrito ingredients.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 large eggs
* 2 tablespoons milk or cream
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 cup summer sausage, diced
* 1/2 cup chopped onion
* 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 6 large flour tortillas
* Optional: Salsa, sour cream, avocado
**Instructions:**
1. **Scramble the eggs:** In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, salt, and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Pour in the egg mixture and cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are set but still slightly moist.
2. **Sauté the sausage and onion:** Add the diced summer sausage and chopped onion to the skillet with the eggs. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sausage is lightly browned and the onion is softened.
3. **Warm the tortillas:** Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
4. **Assemble the burritos:** Place a portion of the egg and sausage mixture on each tortilla. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and any other desired toppings, such as salsa, sour cream, or avocado.
5. **Fold the burritos:** Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll up tightly.
6. **Serve:** Serve the burritos immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add black beans, rice, or potatoes to the burritos.
* Use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or Monterey Jack.
* Add chopped jalapeños or green chilies for a spicy kick.
* Grill the burritos for a crispy exterior.
### 9. Summer Sausage and Pretzel Bites
This is a super easy appetizer that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. The combination of salty pretzels and savory summer sausage is simply irresistible.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package (16 ounces) small pretzel twists
* 1 pound summer sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
* Yellow mustard or honey mustard (optional, for dipping)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the pretzels and sausage:** Simply place the pretzel twists on a serving platter or in a bowl. Top each pretzel with a slice of summer sausage.
2. **Serve:** Serve immediately. Offer yellow mustard or honey mustard on the side for dipping, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use mini pretzel rods instead of twists for a different presentation.
* Add a small cube of cheese on top of the summer sausage for extra flavor and texture (cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack work well).
* Use a variety of mustards (deli-style, spicy brown) for dipping.
* For a slightly fancier presentation, use a toothpick to secure the summer sausage to the pretzel.
### 10. Summer Sausage Pinwheels
These pinwheels are visually appealing and incredibly delicious. They are perfect for parties, potlucks, or a quick and easy lunch.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 1/4 cup chopped green onions
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 pound summer sausage, thinly sliced
* 4 large flour tortillas
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the cream cheese mixture:** In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, green onions, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
2. **Assemble the pinwheels:** Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture evenly over each flour tortilla. Arrange the thinly sliced summer sausage over the cream cheese mixture, covering the entire tortilla.
3. **Roll up the tortillas:** Starting at one edge, tightly roll up each tortilla. Wrap the rolled tortillas in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the filling to set.
4. **Slice and serve:** Remove the tortillas from the refrigerator and unwrap them. Using a sharp knife, slice the tortillas into 1-inch thick pinwheels. Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter and serve.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add chopped black olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or spinach to the cream cheese mixture.
* Use different types of cheese in the cream cheese mixture, such as shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack.
* Add a layer of thinly sliced ham or turkey along with the summer sausage.
* For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture.
## Storage Tips for Summer Sausage
Proper storage is crucial to maintain the quality and safety of summer sausage. Here are some tips:
* **Unopened summer sausage:** Unopened summer sausage can be stored at room temperature for several weeks, as indicated on the packaging. Check the “best by” date for optimal quality.
* **Opened summer sausage:** Once opened, summer sausage should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container and refrigerated. It will typically last for 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator.
* **Freezing summer sausage:** Summer sausage can be frozen for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag. Frozen summer sausage can last for several months, although the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
## Conclusion
Summer sausage is a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. From simple appetizers to hearty meals, summer sausage adds a unique smoky flavor and satisfying texture to any dish. With its long shelf life and easy preparation, it’s the perfect ingredient to keep on hand for quick snacks, parties, or everyday meals. So, get creative and experiment with these recipes to discover your own summer sausage sensations! Enjoy!