Linguini with clams is one of the most satisfying Italian dishes to cook and eat. The fresher the clams, the more flavorsome the sauce.
LIST OF INGREDIENTS
- 2 LBS. of clams (Wholeys Fish Market, Strip District Pittsburgh)
- 11 1/2 OZ. of Barilla linguini
- 1 OZ. of parsley
- 1 of garlic clove
- extra-virgin olive oil
- salt
METHOD
In a large bowl or pan, soak the clams in lightly salted water for at least 2 hours; every 30 minutes, use your hands to gently drain them without stirring up any sand that has filtered to the bottom of the pan; transfer them to a plate, change the water, and add a pinch of salt. Be careful not to break the shells during this process.
Trim the parsley, removing the leaves only; wash and dry with a paper towel and finely chop. Crush and mince 1 garlic clove.
Cook spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water, stirring occasionally. Drain about 2 minutes before al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta cooking water.
Meanwhile, in a pan large enough to hold the clams and linguini, sauté the garlic with 4 Tbsp. oil for 30 seconds, then add the parsley.
After a few seconds, add the drained clams: cook for 1-2 minutes until they start to open, then add 3 small ladlefuls of pasta cooking water.
Drain the linguini and transfer directly to the pan with the clams. Cook until the pasta is al dente and a creamy sauce forms due to the starch being released. Add extra water pasta cooking water if needed. Top with chopped parsley to taste and serve.
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