Fregola with Clams

 

Fregola with clams is a traditional dish from Sardinian cuisine that combines the flavors of the sea with the unique texture of fregola. Fregola, a type of pasta similar to small balls of durum wheat semolina, is cooked together with fresh clams, creating an aromatic and flavorful dish. With the addition of fresh parsley and garlic, this recipe enchants the palates of anyone who loves authentic seafood dishes.

 

Ingredients:

- 300 g of fregola pasta

- 1 kg of fresh clams (veraci clams)

- 2 tablespoons of olive oil

- 1 medium onion, finely chopped

- 3 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1 fresh chili pepper, minced (optional)

- 200 ml of dry white wine

- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped

- Salt, to taste

 

Procedure:

1. Begin by preparing the clams. Make sure they are fresh and clean. Rinse them under running water to remove any sand residue.

2. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chili pepper (if desired for a spicy kick) and cook for a few minutes until they become soft and translucent.

3. Add the clams to the pan and pour in the white wine. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the clams open up.

4. Remove the opened clams from the pan and set them aside. Discard any clams that remain closed and did not open during cooking.

5. In a separate pot, bring a generous amount of salted water to a boil. Add the fregola pasta and cook it according to the instructions on the package, usually for about 10-12 minutes or until al dente.

6. Drain the cooked fregola pasta and transfer it to the pan with the onion and garlic mixture. Add the previously cooked clams as well.

7. Mix all the ingredients in the pan thoroughly over medium heat, being careful not to break the clams. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

 

8. Add the chopped parsley and mix again. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed.

9. Your fregola with clams is ready! Serve it hot in individual bowls, ensuring an even distribution of clams and fregola.

10. This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of fresh white wine and a selection of fresh bread or crostini to accompany the fregola and savor each bite of the dish.

11. Enjoy the fregola with clams slowly, savoring the combination of the tender, slightly toasted texture of the fregola and the delicate flavor of the clams. The fresh parsley adds an aromatic and fresh note that complements the overall taste experience.

12. This dish is ideal to serve as a first course in a dinner or as a light main dish. Fregola with clams is a wonderful choice for a gathering, where you can share the authentic flavors of Sardinian cuisine with your guests.

Enjoy your meal!💓