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#Pasta alla vongole

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Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian

Equipment

  • Equipment Needed: Large pot, skillet, colander, wooden spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
  • 1 lb fresh clams littleneck or Manila are great choices
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3-4 garlic cloves minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Clams:
  • If the clams are not pre-cleaned, soak them in salted water for about 30 minutes to an hour to help expel any sand. Rinse thoroughly before cooking.
  • Cook the Pasta:
  • In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  • Sauté Garlic:
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can become bitter.
  • Add Clams and Wine:
  • Add the cleaned clams to the skillet and pour in the white wine. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the clams open up. Discard any clams that remain closed.
  • Combine with Pasta:
  • Once the clams are opened, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding a little reserved pasta water if the dish seems dry. Stir in the chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.
  • Serve:
  • Divide the pasta and clams among plates, garnishing with additional parsley and lemon wedges. Enjoy your delicious Pasta alla Vongole!
  • Variations
  • Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Substitute clams with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty plant-based dish.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta made from rice or lentils.
  • Additions: For a heartier meal, add cherry tomatoes or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
  • Tips and Substitutions
  • Clam Substitute: If fresh clams are unavailable, canned clams can work in a pinch. Just add them at the end to heat through.
  • Herb Variations: Fresh basil or oregano can replace parsley for a different flavor profile.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.