Italian Hot Sausage Sandwiches

For the sausages:
In a medium sized skillet, add the water, olive oil, and sausages, and turn to medium-high heat. Turn the sausages frequently as they boil in the water, until all the water boils out, about 10 minutes. Turn the heat down to medium, and continue to cook the sausage in the remaining oil to brown them, about 10 minutes. When finished cooking, turn off the heat, and set aside.

For the sauce:
While the sausage cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the extra virgin olive oil, onions, peppers, salt, and pepper. Cook and stir for 10 minutes, or until the onions are translucent. Add the garlic, oregano, thyme, and tomato sauce and cook for about 7 minutes until reduced slightly. Add the sausages to the pan full of sauce, along with any of their juices, and bring them up to temperature, cooking for about 5 minutes. Finish the sauce by adding the red wine and basil. Mix well then remove pan from the flame.

For the assembly:
Split the French rolls in half horizontally, open them up and place them on a baking tray. Toast them under the broiler for about 5 minutes, or until golden brown. Split one of the sausages down the middle lengthwise, and place on the toasted bread, cut side down. Add your desired amount of sauce on top of the sausage. Top with the crown of the French roll and enjoy!

Note: Some packages of Italian hot sausage links come with a quantity of 5. Feel free to cook up that extra sausage with its other brothers and sisters. A hungry family member will surely gobble it up!