Roast the Peppers

1. Roast the red bell peppers under a broiler or on a grill until charred on all sides. Place in a bowl, cover tightly with a lid or plastic wrap, and let steam for 10 minutes. Then peel, remove seeds, and slice into strips.

Cook the Sausage

2. In a skillet over medium heat, heat a drizzle of olive oil. Add the ground hot Italian sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Assemble the Sandwich

3. Slice the Italian bread loaf lengthwise and drizzle both cut sides with olive oil.
4. Layer the cooked sausage, roasted pepper strips, and fresh mozzarella evenly over the bottom half of the bread.

Toast and Finish

5. Place the sandwich under a broiler or in a preheated hot oven just until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted and golden.
6. Remove from oven, spread basil pesto over the top half of the bread, and sprinkle with freshly shredded parmesan.
7. Slice into portions and serve warm.