Savory Meatball Pasta with Sweet Corn and Tomato Sauce

This delightful dish features tender meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce, complemented by sweet corn for a pop of flavor and texture. The combination of garlic and onion adds depth to the sauce, while the pasta serves as the perfect base. It's a comforting, balanced meal that marries traditional Italian flavors with a hint of sweetness from the corn, making it appealing to all ages.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef or pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
• 1 cup sweet corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 oz pasta of your choice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the tomato puree, sweet corn, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
4. Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and let them simmer in the sauce for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Once the meatballs are cooked through, serve them over the pasta, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.