Basic Marinara Sauce

¾ cup chopped onion 1 T. olive oil 1 garlic clove, minced 1 can (28 oz.) Italian crushed tomatoes, undrained 1 can (6 oz.) tomato paste 1 cup water 1 ½ tsp. dried oregano ½ tsp. salt ½ tsp. pepper

In large sauce pan, cook onion in oil until tender. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer.

Stir in tomatoes, tomato paste, water, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 30 minutes. Add meatballs (optional).

Italian Meatballs

1 ½ lb. ground beef 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 eggs, beaten with ½ cup milk 1 tsp. oregano ½ cup grated Parmesan or Romano Cheese 1 tsp. salt 1 cup bread crumbs Dash of pepper 1 small onion, minced ½ tsp. dried basil

Mix all ingredients with hands; then form into golf-size balls. Bake at 350º for 30 minutes. Makes approximately 3 dozen meatballs. Add meatballs to marinara sauce.