1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil3/4 pound of Portuguese chouriço, sliced into thin pieces1 onion, thinly sliced1 and 1/2 pounds of clams (preferrably littleneck)4 tomatoes, coarsely chopped4 garlic cloves, minced1/2 cup of shredded basil leaves1 cup of white wine3/4 pound of linguineSalt and freshly ground pepper (to taste)Pinch of cayenne pepper
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 450°.
Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan.
Add the chourico and onion and cook over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and the chouriço begins to brown, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the cayenne. Arrange the clams in the saucepan and add the tomatoes, garlic and 1/4 cup of the basil on top.
Add the wine and roast in the oven, uncovered, for 5 minutes.
Stir in the clams and roast for about 20 minutes longer, or until most of the clams have opened.
Meanwhile, cook the linguine in a pot of boiling salted water until al dente.
Drain the pasta and transfer it to a large serving bowl.
Pour the chouriço clam sauce over the linguine, season with salt and pepper to taste and toss to combine.
Garnish the linguine with the remaining 1/4 cup of basil, serve and enjoy!