To prepare fregola with clams, you will need a handful of ingredients that are easy to find in any market. The clams should be fresh and alive, preferably from a sustainable source. You will also need garlic, onion, parsley, cherry tomatoes, white wine, and extra virgin olive oil. Most importantly, you will need fregola pasta, which you can order online if you can’t find it in a local store.
To start, clean the clams by soaking them in cold water for at least an hour. Drain and rinse them well. In a large pan, sauté the garlic and onion with olive oil until fragrant. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they burst. Add the clams and the white wine, and cover the pan with a lid. Allow the clams to steam for a few minutes until they open up, discarding any that remain closed.
While the clams cook, prepare the fregola in a separate pot. Boil a large amount of salted water and add the fregola. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and add it to the pan with the clams, tossing well to mix everything together. Add some of the pasta water to the pan to create a sauce that will coat the pasta and the clams. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
Fregola with clams is a delightful dish that combines the flavors of the sea with the earthiness of the pasta. The clams add a briny and savory taste, while the tomatoes and herbs provide acidity and freshness. The fregola pasta has a chewy and nutty texture that complements the softness of the clams. The recipe is also versatile, as you can add other ingredients such as shrimp, squid, or mussels to create a seafood medley.
Moreover, fregola with clams is a healthy and nutritious dish that is low in fat and high in protein. Clams are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, iron, and vitamin B12, while fregola pasta provides complex carbohydrates and dietary fibers. The dish is also low in calories, making it a perfect option for those who are watching their weight.
In conclusion, fregola with clams is a simple and tasty recipe that captures the essence of Italian cuisine. It is a dish that can be enjoyed year-round, whether as a comforting meal in the winter or a light and refreshing lunch in the summer. Fregola pasta is a wonderful alternative to the usual spaghetti or linguine, and it pairs beautifully with the briny taste of the clams. Give this recipe a try and discover the culinary treasures of Sardinia. Buon appetito!