Ricette di Sicilia
Cibo, cultura e tradizioni siciliane
Snails with Pesto and Mint: A Fresh Taste of Sicilian Tradition
Dive into the delightful flavours of snails dressed with pesto and mint, a fragrant Sicilian classic that marries rustic charm with refined elegance.
🛒 Ingredients
▸ For the snails
- ✓ 1 kg snails, already purged
- ✓ salt, to taste
- ✓ freshly ground black pepper
▸ For the pesto
- ✓ 2 garlic cloves
- ✓ a small bunch of fresh basil
- ✓ a handful of fresh mint
- ✓ 125 ml extra virgin olive oil
- ✓ a pinch of salt
📊 Nutritional Information
Fancy whipping up a sophisticated Sicilian dish bursting with rich flavours? Snails with pesto and mint are just the ticket! They combine the hearty earthiness of snails with the bright freshness of basil and mint, creating a wonderfully balanced medley of aromas. Follow this recipe and you’ll bring a genuine Sicilian speciality to your table, perfect for wowing your guests with a hint of Mediterranean grace.
👨🍳 Preparation
- 1
Give the snails a thorough rinse under running water to wash away any grime.
- 2
Bring a large pan of salted water to the boil and simmer the snails for about 15 minutes, skimming off any foam with a slotted spoon.
- 3
Drain the snails, refresh the water, and repeat the boiling twice more to ensure they’re completely clean.
- 4
Meanwhile, prepare the pesto: crush the garlic, basil leaves, and mint together in a pestle and mortar with a pinch of salt.
- 5
Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil, pounding gently until you achieve a smooth, aromatic sauce.
- 6
Drain the snails one last time and toss them in a bowl with the freshly made pesto.
- 7
Finish with a dusting of freshly ground black pepper and serve the snails warm.
💡 Tips and Variations
Feel free to swap some of the basil for parsley for a softer flavour. For a nuttier twist, stir in a handful of chopped almonds into the pesto. And if you like a bit of heat, add a small fresh red chilli to the mix.
📦 Storage
- • Store the snails with pesto in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- • Cover the bowl tightly with cling film or an airtight lid.
- • Reheat gently in a bain-marie or simply serve at room temperature.
🍷 Pairing
Serve your snails with a glass of Contea di Sclafani white wine – its elegant bouquet and crisp finish complement the herbal notes of basil and mint beautifully.
This enchanting Sicilian recipe is a wonderful way to bring a touch of Mediterranean sunshine into your kitchen. Give these snails with pesto and mint a go – whether for a special weekend treat or to impress at your next dinner party. Share the joy of this unique dish with your nearest and dearest, and watch as their faces light up with delight. Happy cooking!
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