Spaghetti with Clams and Broccoli
Category: Main Course (First Dish)
Serves: 4
This delightful Mediterranean recipe combines the tender sweetness of clams with the earthy richness of broccoli, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and vibrant. Perfect for a weekend meal or a family gathering, this recipe blends the flavors of the sea and garden into a harmonious culinary experience.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spaghettoni | 320g |
| Fresh clams | 2kg |
| Broccoli | 700g |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Fresh chili peppers | 2 |
| Fresh mint leaves | As needed |
| Extra virgin olive oil | As needed |
| Fine salt | As needed |
| Coarse salt | As needed |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~450 kcal |
| Protein | ~25g |
| Carbohydrates | ~55g |
| Fats | ~10g |
| Fiber | ~6g |
| Sodium | Moderate |
Instructions
Preparation: The Clams
- Clean the Clams: Inspect the clams, discarding any broken or open shells that don’t close when tapped.
- Soak the Clams: Place the clams in a large bowl filled with cold water and coarse salt. Let them soak for 2 hours, changing the water occasionally. This will help them purge any sand or impurities.
- Rinse and Check: After soaking, drain the clams and rinse them thoroughly under cold running water. Tap each clam lightly on a flat surface to ensure there’s no hidden sand. Set aside.
Broccoli Preparation
- Prepare the Broccoli: Separate the broccoli into small florets and trim the stem. Peel and dice the stem if desired for cooking. Rinse thoroughly.
- Cook the Broccoli: In a large pot of boiling, lightly salted water, cook the broccoli (both florets and stem) for about 10–15 minutes, or until tender.
- Reserve Broccoli Water: Drain the broccoli, keeping the cooking water for later use. Set aside a few florets for garnish and mash the rest into a coarse paste.
Clam Cooking
- Prepare Aromatics: Slice one of the chili peppers lengthwise. In a large skillet, heat a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat and sauté the garlic clove and sliced chili until fragrant.
- Cook the Clams: Add the cleaned clams to the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for 5–7 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally, until the clams open. Discard any clams that remain closed.
- Separate Clams: Remove most of the clams from their shells, leaving a few intact for garnish. Strain the cooking liquid through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to remove any sand.
Combining the Ingredients
- Cook the Pasta: Bring the reserved broccoli water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and cook the spaghettoni until al dente, according to the package instructions.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the skillet with the mashed broccoli, add the strained clam liquid and stir to create a creamy, flavorful sauce.
- Add the Pasta: Drain the pasta and transfer it directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together over medium heat to coat the pasta evenly.
Garnishing and Serving
- Add Final Touches: Stir in the shelled clams, the reserved broccoli florets, and a few whole clams for presentation. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, thinly sliced rounds of the second chili pepper, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
- Serve: Serve immediately while hot, pairing with a crisp white wine for the ultimate Mediterranean dining experience.
Tips for Success
- Clam Selection: Use only the freshest clams available for the best flavor.
- Broccoli Substitution: If broccoli is unavailable, broccolini or Romanesco can be used as a substitute.
- Cooking Water: The reserved broccoli water adds depth to the pasta, so don’t skip this step!
This Spaghetti with Clams and Broccoli recipe is a testament to the elegance of simple, fresh ingredients. Its rich flavor, coupled with a vibrant presentation, will have your guests savoring every bite. Buon appetito!
