Rotini with Pork Meatballs

What You Need:

3 c of rotini pasta

1 t olive oil

2/3 C of water

1 lb. ground pork

1 large egg, lightly beaten

1/2 C of bread crumbs

1/2 t of salt

1/4 t of pepper

2 (12 oz.) jars of marinara sauce, divided

3 carrots, sliced into coins

1 small zucchini, halved lengthwise and cut into slices

1 yellow bell pepper, cored, seeded and cut into strips

How to Make It:

Adjust the oven temperature to 450 degrees and allow the oven to preheat.

Generously spray a cast iron Dutch oven with a non stick cooking spray.

Place the pasta into the pan and drizzle with the olive oil.

Pour the water into the pan and stir to coat the pasta well.

Place the ground pork into a mixing bowl.

Add the egg, bread crumbs, salt and pepper and mix until well blended.

Shape the mixture into meatballs and place into the pan.

Pour 1 jar of marinara sauce into the pan.

Layer the carrots, zucchini and bell pepper strips into the pan.

Pour the second jar of sauce over the vegetables.

Cover and bake 45 minutes or until the vegetables are fork tender.

Makes 4 servings

Any type of pasta may be used in this recipe. If you prefer you may use ground beef, ground turkey or ground chicken to create these tasty meatballs.

Preparation Time:  approximately 20 minutes

Baking Time:  approximately 45 minutes

Total Time:  approximately 1 hour 05 minutes

Nutritional Information:  (approximate values per serving)

Calories 724; Fat 28g; Carbohydrates 74g; Cholesterol 206 mg; Sodium 133 mg; Protein 45g;

Fiber 8g