Fregola sarda, a delightful type of Sardinian pasta resembling small couscous, makes a stunning base for a vibrant seafood dish. This recipe, for Fregola with Clams, showcases the best of Mediterranean cuisine, blending the earthy, nutty flavor of fregola with the briny sweetness of fresh clams. The simple yet elegant preparation allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine, creating a dish that's both satisfying and sophisticated. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, equally at home on a rustic table or a more formal setting.
This recipe for Fregola with Clams delivers a burst of fresh, coastal flavor in every bite. We'll guide you through each step, from preparing the clams to achieving perfectly cooked fregola, ensuring a flawless result even for novice cooks. Ready to embark on this culinary journey to Sardinia? Let's dive into the detailed instructions.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
- Fregola Sarda pasta
- Vongole clams
- Parsley
- Garlic
- Chili pepper
- Tomato sauce
- White wine: 1 cup
- Virgin olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Clams and Sauce Base
- Smash the garlic cloves.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over high heat. Add chili pepper and wait until the oil is hot.
- Add the vongole clams to the pan and pour in the white wine.
- Cook the clams until they open, saving the cooking liquid.
Step 2. Cook the Fregola Pasta
- In a separate pan, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
- Add the fregola pasta to the pan with the garlic oil.
- Stir in some of the vongole cooking liquid and the tomato sauce.
- Add salt and pepper to taste. Cook for about 10 minutes, adding more water if needed.
Step 3. Combine and Finish
- Remove the vongole clams from their shells and add them to the pasta.
- Mix everything well and serve garnished with fresh parsley.
Read more: Easy Basil Pesto Pasta: Simple, Cheap, & Delicious Recipe
Tips
- Use high-quality virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Don't be afraid to add more water to the pasta if it needs it.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the clams with other shellfish?
Yes! Mussels, shrimp, or even scallops would work well. Adjust cooking time as needed based on the shellfish you choose.
2. What if I don't have dry fregola? Can I use another pasta?
While fregola is ideal for its texture, you can substitute with small pasta shapes like small shells or ditalini. Keep in mind the cooking time may differ.
This Fregola con Vongole recipe is a testament to the simplicity and deliciousness of Sardinian cuisine. Enjoy the bright, fresh flavors of this easy-to-make pasta dish, perfect for any occasion. Buon appetito!