1 1/4 pounds lean ground beef
1 egg
1/2 cup fine dry bread crumbs
2 teaspoons mixed Italian style herbs
2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
1 teaspoon salt
14.5 ounce can Italian stewed tomatoes
Parmesan cheese
Fresh tomatoes, diced, for garnish, optional

Preparation Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, place the beef, egg, bread crumbs, herbs, garlic, salt and tomatoes.

2. Mix thoroughly with wooden spoon.

3. Turn into an 8 1/2 x 4 1/4 inch lightly greased loaf pan. Pat down firmly. Smooth the top.

4. Bake at 350 degrees for about 1 hour or until meat loaf is cooked through.

5. Remove from oven. Let stand 10 minutes before slicing. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese. Garnish with diced tomatoes, if desired.