Spaghetti with sauce and meatballs

Spaghetti with Sauce and Meatballs: A Culinary Indulgence

Who doesn’t love a steaming plate of spaghetti with sauce and meatballs? This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for family lunches or dinners with friends. The juicy meatballs, accompanied by a flavorful sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, will turn any meal into a true feast for the senses.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients Needed:

*For the meatballs:*
- 500 g minced meat (a mix of pork and beef, or your preference)
- 1 bunch of green onions and garlic greens (use only the white part)
- 1 thicker slice of bread, soaked in milk and well drained
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Dried thyme, 1 teaspoon
- Fresh dill, 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- Oil, for greasing hands

*For the sauce:*
- 3 tablespoons of oil
- 1 bunch of green onions and garlic greens (also from the white part)
- 3 tablespoons of red wine
- 400 ml tomato sauce (or passata)
- 1 bay leaf
- Dried thyme, 1 teaspoon
- Salt and pepper, to taste

*For the pasta:*
- 200 g spaghetti

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Preparing the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine the minced meat with the green onions and garlic, adding the fresh dill and the soaked bread. These ingredients will give a soft and moist texture to the meatballs.
- Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme, mixing well to integrate all the flavors.
- Use a little oil to grease your hands and form balls the size of golf balls. This trick will prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands and help you achieve uniform meatballs.

2. Baking the Meatballs:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Place the meatballs on the tray, leaving some space between them for even cooking.
- Bake the meatballs for 25-30 minutes, until they are golden and browned. Check them occasionally to ensure a perfect crust.

3. Boiling the Pasta:
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil, adding salt (about 1 tablespoon for every 2 liters of water). Add the spaghetti and boil according to the package instructions, usually between 8-12 minutes, until al dente. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Preparing the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat the 3 tablespoons of oil. Add the green onions and garlic, sautéing over medium heat until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the red wine, letting it simmer for 2-3 minutes to evaporate the alcohol.
- Incorporate the tomato sauce, dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper, allowing the sauce to boil on high heat for 5 minutes. It’s important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the pan.
- After 5 minutes, add the meatballs to the sauce. If you want to keep some meatballs “dry” to serve separately, add those that will be consumed with the sauce.

5. Serving:
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce and meatballs. Mix well to coat the pasta with the rich and flavorful sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with a little fresh dill or grated parmesan, if desired.

Helpful Tips:
- You can add vegetables to the sauce, such as carrots or zucchini, for a healthier version.
- If you want a spicier sauce, add a pinch of chili pepper or chili flakes.
- You can substitute spaghetti with other types of pasta, such as penne or fusilli, to vary the texture.

Variations and Combinations:
This recipe pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad, with a light dressing of olive oil and lemon. Additionally, a glass of red wine or a cold lemonade can perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional Information:
This recipe contains approximately 650 calories per serving, being a good source of protein from the minced meat and carbohydrates from the pasta. Adding greens not only enhances the flavor but also provides essential vitamins.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- *Can I use minced meat from another source?* Yes, you can use chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
- *How can I store the meatballs?* The meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- *Is it possible to make the sauce without wine?* Absolutely! You can replace the wine with a splash of balsamic vinegar or omit this ingredient altogether.

I encourage you to try this simple and tasty recipe for spaghetti with sauce and meatballs, which will not only please everyone but also bring warmth and comfort to every meal. Enjoy your meal!