Exploring the Jersey Shore (New Jersey)

Our travels continue with the great state of New Jersey.  Not only is it famous for Atlantic City, it is home to big time reality television shows - The Real Housewives of New Jersey, Jersey Shore, Jerseylicious, Jersey Couture, and even the Cake Boss.  While New Jersey may not be a large state, it has the highest population density in America.  It also has the longest boardwalk in the world.

Another fun fact about New Jersey is that it has the most diners in the world!  It also had the first Indian reservation and holds the record for the tallest water tower in the world - pretty unusual information!  Today we are making a dish paying tribute to New Jersey.

Governor of New Jersey's Linguini with Red Clam Sauce: 

1/4 c. olive oil
1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper
5 cloves of garlic, chopped
1 large can crushed tomatoes
1 small can of stewed tomatoes
1 sm. can seasoned tomato paste
4 sm. cans chopped clams with water
Salt & black pepper to taste
1 tsp. fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp. fresh basil, chopped
For that Jersey Fresh Flavor cook down 6 Jersey Tomatoes & add to canned tomatoes
 

Put olive oil in a large skillet,

Add red pepper.

Take the skin off the garlic,

 

Chop,

Add to the pan and cook until golden brown. 

 

Add crushed tomatoes and stewed tomatoes,

 

Fresh chopped tomatoes (optional),

Tomato paste,

 

 

Clams and their water. 

Chop fresh parsley, 

Add to the pan,

 

Chop fresh basil,

Add to pan.

Simmer approximately 1 1/2 - 2 hours on low heat.

Boil linguini noodles according to package directions,

Strain,

Serve in a bowl or on a plate.  Layer noodles first,

 

Then, the red clam sauce.

 

This is great with a side Caesar salad and garlic bread!