I hope I’ve inspired you to fire up the grill this weekend. We’ve looked at the latest offerings in organic hot dogs, veggie dogs and bratwurst. Now it’s time to make a shopping list, head to a supermarket that carries organic food, and prepare your barbecue feast. Here’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s both juicy and flavorful.

Spicy Cracked Black Pepper Brats

Prep time: 10 minutes – Grill time: 40 minutes

Makes 5 servings

• 1 package bratwurst links
• 1 large onion, cut into 1/4” round slices
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium green pepper
• 1 medium sweet red pepper
• 1 medium sweet yellow pepper
• 1 or 2 jalapeño peppers (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh cracked pepper
• 5 hoagie rolls, split

1. Grill brats according to package directions.
2. Brush onion slices with oil and grill over medium heat, 3 to 4 minutes per side or until crisp-tender and golden. Cut onion slices in half; place in a large bowl.
3. Grill whole peppers until skins blister, about 3 to 4 minutes, using tongs to rotate peppers until all sides are blistered and blackened. Immediately place peppers in a bowl, and cover or cool 30 seconds. Then place in a large resealable plastic bag and seal; let stand 10 minutes.
4. Peel off and discard charred pepper skins. Remove seeds. Slice peppers into 1/4” strips; place in bowl with onions. Add cracked pepper; toss gently.
5. Place one brat in each roll. Top with pepper and onion mixture. Serve hot.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Johnsonville Sausage