Sausage and Pancetta Skewers

Sausage and pancetta skewers are an excellent rustic dish, perfect for an outdoor barbecue or an informal dinner with friends. Here’s how to prepare them:

Ingredients

• Sausage: about 300 grams
• Smoked pancetta: 200 grams (thinly sliced)
• Fresh rosemary: a few sprigs
• Fresh sage: a few leaves
• Extra virgin olive oil: as needed
• Salt and pepper: as needed

Preparation

1. Start by cutting the sausage into pieces about 3-4 cm long. If you prefer, you can also use pre-cut sausages.
2. Cut the pancetta into pieces similar in size to the sausage.
3. Prepare the skewers by alternating a piece of sausage and a piece of pancetta. You can also thread sage and rosemary leaves between each piece to further flavor the skewers during cooking.
4. Heat the grill or barbecue. Meanwhile, lightly brush the skewers with extra virgin olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook the skewers over medium-high heat, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking on all sides, until the sausage and pancetta are nicely browned and crispy on the outside but still juicy on the inside.
6. Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

These skewers are simple to prepare and can be customized to your liking. For example, you could add pieces of vegetables such as peppers, onions, or zucchini between the sausage and pancetta. Remember to pre-soak wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes before grilling, if using them, to prevent burning.

Curiosities

Skewers are a versatile and social way of cooking, as they allow diners to mix various flavors and are easily manageable in front of a flame, evoking a sense of conviviality and outdoor culinary tradition. In some regions of Italy, skewers have different names and are served with local sauces that enhance their flavor.