Italian Meatballs with Green Beans

FOR THE MEATBALLS

• 500g minced beef

• ½ cup fresh breadcrumbs (dried or fresh both work)

• ¼ cup milk

• ½ cup finely grated parmesan cheese

• 2 cloves of garlic, minced

• 1 egg, beaten

• ½ bunch of fresh basil, finely chopped (reserve the stalks for the sauce)

• 1 tsp. fine salt

• olive oil (for browning)

FOR THE SAUCE

• 800g canned peeled tomatoes, chopped

• 1 large onion, finely diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp. sugar

• ½ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes or chilli powder (optional)

• olive oil

• salt & pepper

• 200g green (string) beans, trimmed (optional)

• extra parmesan cheese for serving