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Tagliarini with Totten Virginica Oysters, Prosecco, Chives, and Cream

Think of this dish as the upscale cousin of that old standby, linguine with clams. Sparkling and oysters are a natural and festive combination, and here they combine to create a quick, fabulous pasta. This dish is almost a lighter version of an oyster stew, with the oysters poached just until done, the sauce brightened with prosecco, and then served over a fresh tangle of tagliarini. This would make a nice addition to a New Year’s Eve menu, or make any winter supper feel like a holiday.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    serves 4

Ingredients

Kosher salt
16 Totten Virginica oysters in the shell (use 6 per person if using a smaller oyster)
1/2 cup prosecco
4 tablespoons heavy cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 pound fresh tagliarini
4 tablespoons minced chives

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Set a pot of water to boil over high heat and add a small handful of salt.

    Step 2

    Shuck the oysters over a bowl to catch all their liquor. In a saucepan over high heat, combine the oyster liquor, prosecco, cream, and butter. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer until reduced by half. You should end up with 1/2 to 3/4 cup total liquid. Add the oysters and immediately turn off the heat, allowing the residual heat to gently poach the oysters while the pasta cooks.

    Step 3

    Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Drain and add to the sauce. Add the chives, toss, and taste for seasoning. Serve in warmed bowls.

Ethan Stowell's New Italian Kitchen
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