Published on

Linguine alle Vongole- A Taste of Authentic Campanian Cuisine

Authors
  • avatar
    Name
    ChefPandas
    Twitter

🍝 About This Dish

Linguine alle Vongole, or Linguine with Clams, is a classic Italian seafood pasta dish originating from the coastal region of Campania. This dish perfectly encapsulates the freshness and simplicity of Italian cuisine, with its vibrant flavors and aromatic essence.

🌿 Ingredients Overview

  • 400g linguine pasta (linguine)
  • 1kg fresh clams (vongole)
  • 4 cloves garlic (aglio)
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (olio d'oliva extravergine)
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (vino bianco secco)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (prezzemolo fresco)
  • Red pepper flakes, to taste (peperoncino)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste (sale e pepe)

✨ What Makes It Special

Linguine alle Vongole showcases the bounty of the sea and the simplicity of Campanian cuisine. While there are variations in the preparation of this dish across Italy, the essence remains the same – highlighting the delicate flavors of fresh clams with the perfect balance of garlic, olive oil, and wine.

📝 Ingredients

  • Step 1: Prepare the Clams

    • Rinse the clams under cold water to remove any sand or debris.
    • In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and add garlic.
    • Once the garlic is fragrant, add the clams and white wine. Cover and cook until the clams open.
    • Discard any unopened clams.

  • Step 2: Cook the Pasta

    • In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
    • Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the linguine.

  • Step 3: Combine and Serve

    • Add the cooked linguine to the pan with the clams.
    • Toss well over low heat, adding pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
    • Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
    • Finish with chopped parsley and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

⏰ Timing Guide

  • Preparation: 15 minutes
  • Cooking: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

🍷 Wine Pairing

For an authentic Italian experience, pair Linguine alle Vongole with a crisp and light white wine such as Vermentino or Falanghina. The acidity of the wine complements the brininess of the clams and enhances the overall flavors of the dish.

💭 Chef's Notes

  • Use fresh clams for the best flavor, and discard any clams that do not open during cooking.
  • Adjust the level of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
  • Finish the dish with a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a true taste of Campanian cuisine.

📦 Storage

Linguine alle Vongole is best enjoyed fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water to maintain the flavors and texture.

Buon appetito! Enjoy this taste of Campania with Linguine alle Vongole, a dish that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Italy's coastal regions.