Clams With Oregano and Bread Crumbs (Vongole Origanate)

Ingredients for Clams With Oregano and Bread Crumbs (Vongole Origanate)

• 24 medium littleneck clams, scrubbed

• 725ml kosher salt

• 60ml extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling

• 1 medium red onion, cut into 1/8-inch dice

• 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

• 1 red pepper, cut into 1/8-inch dice

• 150g fresh bread crumbs

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano

How to make Clams With Oregano and Bread Crumbs (Vongole Origanate)

Carefully open the clams, discarding the top shells, and drain the clam liquid into a small mixing bowl. Set aside. Loosen the clams from the bottom shells but do not remove them. Pour the salt onto a baking sheet so that it is at least 1/2-inch deep and arrange the clams in their half-shells in the salt.

In a 10- to 12-inch sauté pan, heat the oil over medium heat until smoking. Add the onion, garlic, and pepper and cook 6 to 7 minutes, until softened and light golden brown. Add the bread crumbs and continue cooking another 3 minutes, until they are light golden brown as well. Remove the mixture from the heat, season with salt and pepper, and cool. Stir in the oregano and the reserved clam liquid.

Preheat the grill. Pack about 2 teaspoons of the crumb mixture loosely into each clam shell. (Remember that the clam, not the stuffing, is the most important part of this dish; stuffing should surround and enhance the clam, not overpower it.)

Place the clams under the grill and heat through, about 1 1/2 to 2 minutes, just until the crumb mixture is deep golden brown; you're not really cooking the clam. Drizzle with a drop of olive oil, and serve.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.