Set the Table... for Delicious, Versatile Meatballs

ON TOP OF Spagheeetiii... Though I aspire to be as Martha-Stewart-like as possible in the kitchen, I am often foiled by reality and a humble box of spaghetti and a jar of sauce will save the day on a busy evening. Quick meals are often lacking in nutrition, so I like to make this one a little heartier by putting some ground beef in the sauce or making meatballs.

Meatballs can be very diverse and are good in a number of recipes. They can top your pasta mountain, make a meatball sub, or make a soup dinner-worthy. I like them in Italian Wedding soup (recipe next week!). How do you like to eat meatballs? Here is my recipe for simple meatballs.

Meatballs in Italian Wedding Soup (recipe next week!)

1 pound ground beef or pork

1/4 cup bread crumbs

1 egg

1 Tbs oregano

1 tsp salt

1 pinch cayenne (optional)

Preheat the oven to 350.

In a large mixing bowl, place all of the ingredients. Mix them thoroughly. I prefer to squish them together with my hands, but you can use a spoon or mixer, too. Roll the mixture into 1 inch balls and place them on a cookie sheet (I like to line it with parchment paper) making sure they do not touch.

Put them in the oven for about 15 minutes or until they are golden brown on the outside.

Put them in your favorite soup, on a toasted bun with some barbeque sauce, or ...on top of spagheeettiii and enjoy!