Vongali Siciliano
Vongali Siciliano offers a delightful taste of Sicily with fresh clams cooked in garlic, parsley, olive oil, and steaming broth, perfect for seafood lovers seeking a quick, flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scrub clams with a stiff brush and rinse in running water until all sand is removed.
- Place garlic, olive oil, and parsley in a large pot. Heat for 3 minutes.
- Add water, a little salt, and pepper to taste, then add the clams.
- Cover the pot and steam over medium heat for about 20 minutes or until shells open.
- Remove clams and place them in deep plates.
- Serve hot with the clam broth.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure clams are fresh, choose ones that are tightly closed or close when tapped. For a milder garlic flavor, you can sauté the garlic for a shorter time. If you don't have parsley, fresh basil or cilantro can be suitable substitutes. Adjust the salt based on your preference, particularly if serving with salty sides like Fettucini And Shrimp.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the clams in deep bowls to capture the flavorful broth. Pair with crusty bread to soak up the juices, and consider a side of pasta, such as Mrs. Goodman'S Spaghetti With White Clam Sauce, for a complete meal. A crisp white wine complements the dish beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover clams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to help retain moisture. Avoid microwaving as it may overcook the clams and make them tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vongali Siciliano contains roughly 296 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 532mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my clams are fresh?
Fresh clams should have tightly closed shells or close when tapped. Discard any that remain open or have broken shells, as these may be dead and unsafe to eat.
Can I use frozen clams for this recipe?
While fresh clams are preferred for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen clams if necessary. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking and adjust the cooking time slightly.
What can I serve with Vongali Siciliano?
This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping in the broth. You could also serve it alongside a light salad or pasta, such as Seafood Pasta Toss, to balance the meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).