Spaghetti with Clams and Lemon

Spaghetti with clams and lemon is a tasty first course that combines sea flavors and citrus for a fresh and aromatic result. Here is the recipe:

Ingredients

• 320 g of spaghetti
• 500 g of true clams
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 lemon (zest and juice)
• Fresh parsley to taste
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Chili pepper (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Preparation

1. Clean the clams by soaking them in salted water for about 30 minutes, then rinse under running water.
2. In a large pan, fry the garlic cloves in extra virgin olive oil. If you wish, you can also add a chili pepper for a spicy touch.
3. Add the clams to the pan, cover with a lid, and cook until they have all opened.
4. Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti in plenty of salted water according to the package instructions until al dente.
5. Once the clams have opened, remove the garlic cloves and add the grated lemon zest and juice, mixing to blend the flavors.
6. Drain the spaghetti, reserving some of the cooking water, and transfer it to the pan with the clams.
7. Deglaze with a little cooking water if necessary and sauté at high heat to flavor the pasta.
8. Finish with chopped fresh parsley, adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, and plate.

Now, let me tell you a curiosity: True clams are considered among the best for preparing this dish, and the addition of lemon is not just for flavor, but also to help “cleanse” the palate between bites, thus enhancing the flavor of the clams.

Bon appétit!