SPAGHETTI WITH BOTTARGA & CLAMS

INGREDIENTS

• 3 Pounds Barilla Spaghetti
• 6 Each Garlic Cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 Cups White Wine
• 1/2 Cup Fennel Fronds, roughly chopped
• 1 1/2 Cups Extra Virgin Olive Oil, divided
• 3 3/4 Pounds Small Pasta Clams, scrubbed and rinsed thoroughly
• 3 Small Lobes Mullet Bottarga, grated
• Black Pepper and Sea Salt to taste

PREPARATION

1. 1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
3. 2. Season the water and cook the pasta according to the directions.
5. 3. In a large rondo sauté the garlic in half the olive oil, when it turns golden in color add the clams and white wine.
7. 4. Cover with a lid and steam over medium heat until the clams are fully cooked and open. Discard any that do not open.
9. 5. Remove the meat from ¾ of the clams and reserve some with the shell for garnish.
11. 6. To the skillet add 2 cups of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and add to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until almost all the liquid has been absorbed.
13. 7. Add the clams and half the bottarga. Stir well to combine.
15. 8. Add the pasta to a 2-inch deep hotel pan for service. Garnish with remaining Bottarga and fennel fronds. Drizzle with some aromatic olive oil and sprinkle with some fresh cracked black pepper.