A friend of mine has a theory: you crave the heartiness and warmth of a meatball sub in the winter and the (relatively) lighter, tangy flavor of an Italian sub in the summer. Fall and spring, you’re on your own to decide which of these two classics best fits your mood.

This spring, we choose the meatball sub — and Sabatino’s Italian Kitchen is there to fulfill our needs. When it comes to meatball subs, there’s always a fear of ending up with processed-tasting, Chef Boyardee–like meatballs — or, worse yet, bland ones. But not these. Sabatino’s are fat meatballs, with a texture and taste that reassure that they’re homemade, and with the true flavor of beef and herbs. Best yet, they have just the right degree of saltiness. Should you decide to save half for tomorrow’s lunch, be forewarned of the jealous looks you’ll get from your co-workers. The smell alone creates hunger pangs.

Available for $5.78 at Sabatino’s Italian Kitchen, 242 Mass Ave, in Arlington. Call (781) 646-4126.