Best Easy Vongole Recipe by Mario Batali
Vongole, or spaghetti alle vongole, is a classic Italian dish that showcases the delicious flavors of clams, garlic, white wine, and fresh herbs. This seafood pasta dish originated in Naples and has become a popular choice in Italian cuisine worldwide. Today, we will explore a simple and delectable vongole recipe by the renowned chef, Mario Batali.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 2 pounds fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden.
3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the clams to the skillet. Pour in the white wine and cover the skillet, allowing the clams to steam for about 5 minutes or until they open.
4. Remove any unopened clams from the skillet and discard them. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked clams to a large bowl, leaving the liquid in the skillet.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the remaining liquid and toss well to coat the pasta evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors.
6. Return the clams to the skillet and toss them with the pasta. Sprinkle in the fresh parsley and season with salt to taste.
7. Serve the vongole immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Q&A:
1. Can I use frozen clams instead of fresh ones?
It is best to use fresh clams for this recipe, as frozen clams may not have the same texture and flavor.
2. Can I substitute another type of pasta for spaghetti?
Yes, you can use linguine or fettuccine as an alternative to spaghetti.
3. Can I omit the red pepper flakes if I don’t like spicy food?
Certainly! You can skip the red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder flavor.
4. Can I use a different type of wine?
While Batali’s recipe calls for dry white wine, you can experiment with different varieties such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
5. How do I know if a clam is bad?
If a clam is open before cooking or remains closed after cooking, it should be discarded as it may be spoiled.
6. Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can customize your vongole by adding cherry tomatoes, chopped shallots, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy twist.
7. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Indeed! You can replace the clams with sautéed mushrooms or marinated artichoke hearts for a delightful vegetarian version of vongole.
This easy vongole recipe by Mario Batali is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of the sea in a simple and satisfying dish. With just a few ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and savor the taste of this classic Italian delicacy!