Linguine with Clams and Zucchini (Linguine con Vongole e Zucchini)

1. 1Lightly crush the garlic cloves and heat with both oils in a large nonreactive sauté pan over medium heat until they start to sizzle. Adjust the heat so the garlic continues to cook evenly in the oil, releasing its own essential oils, and softens but does not brown, about 2 minutes. Add the zucchini and carefully blend with the oil. Season with salt.
2. 2Continue to cook slowly, stirring from time to time, until the squash is completely softened and starts to break apart but does not brown, about 20 minutes. Remove from the heat and let rest in the oil for 2 hours. Pour into a fine-mesh strainer, reserving the zucchini and oil separately. Keep the same pan, without cleaning, for cooking the clams.
3. 3Heat the zucchini oil in the pan over medium heat until it starts to sizzle. Add the clams, cover the pan, and turn the heat to medium-high. Cook the clams, gently shaking the pan from time to time, until they start to open, 5 to 6 minutes. Cooking time will vary, depending on the size of the clams and the thickness of the shells. Add the reserved zucchini, hot pepper flakes, and parsley. Gently stir with the clams. Set aside.
4. 4Boil the linguine in an abundant amount of salted water until done to taste. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the linguine, adding a little of the pasta water so that the zucchini and pan liquid coat the pasta like a sauce.
5. 5Transfer to a warm serving platter or individual pasta bowls. Start with the pasta, then top with the clams and zucchini. Serve subito—immediately—with extra hot pepper flakes on the side.

Wine Recommendation: Whites from Campania, a Falanghina from Castello Ducale or Lacrima Christi from Villa Carafa

© 2007 David Shalleck