Table for two please!

So there wasn't a large man with an accordion singing Bella Notte table side, and my dad didn't nose the last remaining meatball over to my mom. They didn't share a string of pasta, but the atmosphere was still romantic. Even with me sitting across from them. Well maybe romantic isn't the best word. Regardless, I think my parents enjoyed their anniversary dinner. I thought my platter of spaghetti and meatballs looked just as appetizing as the one in Lady and the Tramp.
Like my fresh tomato sauce, I made my meatballs from scratch. They're perfect for a romantic pasta dinner or just by themselves. Homemade meatballs are so easy to prepare! Just don't be afraid to get your hands a little dirty. They are your best tools.

Here's what you'll need:

1 pound ground beef  

1 pound ground pork

4 garlic cloves, minced or grated (I grate mine into the bowl)

1 shallot, minced

2 eggs, beaten

1 1/2 cups freshly grated parmesan and romano cheese

1 1/2 cups italian seasoned bread crumbs

1/4 cup of whole milk

1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley

salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil            

Add all the ingredients, except the meat and oil, to a large mixing bowl. Stir everything together so that it all becomes moist. Add the meat, and using your hands, mix until it's just combined. Don't over mix or you will get tough meatballs. 

Preheat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the oil. Start making your meatballs. They can be as big or as little as you want them. I make mine into about 1 inch rounds. Add them to the hot oil. Brown each side, gently turning them with a pair of rubber tongs. Once each side is browned put the lid on the skillet and cook for about 10-15 minutes or until cooked through, turning them occasionally.

If you're making them to go into a sauce add the sauce to the pan just before you put the lid on your skillet.

Bread with homemade garlic butter adds that little something extra to your meal

Buon Appetito!!!