Home

Mezze maniche with mussels and clams in lemongrass

17/11/2023

Here’s an interesting variant that blends Italian tradition with Oriental flavors through the use of lemongrass. Here’s what you need and how to prepare mezze maniche with mussels and clams in lemongrass:

Ingredients

  • 320 g of mezze maniche (or short pasta of your choice)
  • 500 g of fresh mussels
  • 500 g of true clams
  • 1 stalk of lemongrass
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • Fresh parsley to taste
  • Chili pepper (optional)
  • 150 ml of white wine
  • Extra virgin olive oil to taste
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 bunch of chopped parsley

Preparation

  1. Start by thoroughly cleaning the mussels and clams. Put them in a bowl with cold water and salt for at least one hour to let the sand come out. Then rinse them under running water and remove the beards from the mussels.

  2. By gently pressing the garlic with the side of a knife, leave it whole and let it brown in a large pan with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Add the chili pepper if you desire a spicy touch.

  3. Cut the lemongrass into pieces about 5 cm long and crush them with the back of the knife to release the aromas. Add them to the pan with the garlic.

  4. Put the drained mussels and clams into the pan, stir for a minute, and then deglaze with white wine. Cover with a lid and cook until they have opened, about 5-6 minutes. Remove any that have not opened.

  5. In the meantime, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente, following the instructions on the package.

  6. When the pasta is ready, drain it and transfer it to the pan with the seafood. Stir everything over high heat for a minute, to flavor the pasta.

  7. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, plate, and serve immediately.

The scent of lemongrass is a truly unique addition to this dish, bringing freshness that contrasts wonderfully with the taste of the sea from the mussels and clams. Enjoy your meal!

Curiosity

Lemongrass, also known as citronella, is a tropical herbaceous plant whose fragrance resembles that of lemons. Many do not know that it pairs well with fishy flavors, adding an exotic and fresh note to dishes.

Mezze maniche with mussels and clams in lemongrass