Grapes are in peak season right now.  Most of us just pop them in our mouths from the fridge, but did you ever try roasting them! It brings out a sweet smoky flavor that is phenomenal! This recipe pairs them with sweet and spicy sausages. It is not only an elegant presentation, but a truly affordable one. It's also a great, quick  meal to serve at dinner parties.


3 lbs Italian sausage (sweet or hot)
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
3 cups of seedless grapes (I prefer red)
4 tablespoons red wine
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

Preheat oven 500*F

  Heat a large, oven proof saute pan (or roasting pan if you're making a large quantity) on stove top on medium high heat. Add olive oil and sausages. Brown them on all sides and remove from pan and set aside. Pour out grease and return pan to heat. Add butter and grapes and toss to coat thoroughly. Add red wine and sausages, along with any accumulated juices. Stir to coat grapes and sausages.
  Place in oven for 25 minutes, turning the sausages half way through the cooking process.
  Return the pan to the stove top on medium high heat and add the balsamic vinegar to deglaze the pan. Reduce until the sauce thickens and serve. I serve broccoli rabe and roasted potatoes along side.