This Agretti recipe offers a simple side dish that matches seafood wonderfully, showcasing the essence of Italian cuisine during February and March. Also known as Salsola soda, Agretti grows along the Mediterranean coast, notably in Central Italy. This succulent plant is appreciated for its crisp texture and distinctive salty-sweet taste. In Italy, it's also called Barba di Frate (monk's beard) and has a very short season, making it a sought-after delight for food enthusiasts.
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Growing up in Rome, I became accustomed to enjoying Agretti in its most authentic form, prepared simply to highlight its natural flavors, often served alongside fresh seafood.
Agretti, with its similarities to samphire grass, another marsh grass known for its succulent, salty profile, complements the oceanic flavors of fish and shellfish, enhancing the fresh tastes of the sea with each bite.
You can only find Agretti at farmer's markets in February and March, as it has a short peak season.
So, if you spot it on the market stalls this time of year, take the opportunity to try this very delicate vegetable and its salty-sweet flavor.
For more Italian side dishes to serve with seafood you can check: Sicilian potato salad, sauteed spinach, green beans, Russian salad
Ingredients
To truly savor the freshness of Agretti and appreciate its natural flavors, you only need two key ingredients:
- Agretti: often sold in branches, a branch can serve 4 to 6 people
- Salted water: for briefly boiling the Agretti to soften them
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Drizzling high-quality extra virgin olive oil over cooked Agretti enhances its natural, earthy flavors with a rich, fruity undertone. The oil's smooth texture complements the crispness of the Agretti, adding depth without overpowering its delicate taste.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice introduces a bright, citrusy accent that highlights the Agretti's salty-sweet notes. The acidity of the lemon balances the slight bitterness of the greens, bringing a refreshing lift that makes each bite more vibrant.
Together, these ingredients subtly elevate the Agretti, allowing its unique taste and texture to shine through, creating a simple yet exquisite side dish that pairs wonderfully with seafood.
Instructions
- Start by trimming the pinkish roots and woody stems from the raw Agretti.
- Rinse the trimmed Agretti under cold water to clean them thoroughly.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the Agretti, cooking for about 3 minutes or until they become tender yet still al dente.
- Carefully drain the Agretti in a colander.
- Serve the Agretti at room temperature, dressed simply with extra virgin olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a burst of flavor.
How to serve them
To serve this Italian Agretti in a manner that honors its Italian heritage and maximizes its compatibility with seafood, consider the following presentation tips:
- Plating: Arrange the cooked Agretti on a serving platter or individual plates as a bed for the seafood. The vibrant green of the Agretti creates a visually appealing contrast that enhances the dish's appearance.
- Pairing with Seafood: Select fresh, high-quality seafood as a main dish to accompany the Agretti. Grilled or pan-seared fish, such as trout or sea bream, make excellent choices. Shellfish like scallops, prawns, or clams also pair beautifully with the salty-sweet flavor of the Agretti.
- Garnishing: Add a final touch of elegance by garnishing the dish with lemon wedges or zest, offering an extra citrusy note that guests can adjust to their taste. A freshly ground black pepper sprinkle or a few capers can also complement the flavors.
- Serving Temperature: While the Agretti is best served at room temperature to maintain its crisp texture, ensure the seafood is served hot off the grill or pan to create a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
- Accompaniments: Consider serving this dish with a side of light, crisp white wine that complements the freshness of the seafood and the unique taste of Agretti. A Pinot Grigio or Vermentino would be an excellent choice.
By following these serving suggestions, you can elevate the Agretti side dish into a memorable Italian seafood feast, capturing the essence of coastal Italian cuisine and providing a dining experience that celebrates the simplicity and freshness of its ingredients.
Storage
To maintain the freshness and crispness of Agretti, it's best to store it in the refrigerator within an airtight container. When stored properly, Agretti can last for up to 3 days. It's important to note that freezing Agretti is not recommended, as it can compromise the texture and flavor of this delicate vegetable. Always aim to use Agretti as close to the purchase date as possible to enjoy its unique taste and nutritional benefits at their peak.
More Italian side dishes
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Simple Italian Agretti Recipe With Lemon (Salsola Soda)
Ingredients (Commissions Earned)
- 1 bunch Saltwort agretti about 10 oz
- 2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- ½ lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
Equipment (Commissions Earned)
Instructions
- Start by trimming the pinkish roots and woody stems from the raw Agretti1 bunch Saltwort agretti
- Rinse the trimmed Agretti under cold water to clean them thoroughly
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the Agretti, cooking for about 3 minutes or until they become tender yet still al dente.1 teaspoon salt
- Carefully drain the Agretti in a colander.
- Serve the Agretti at room temperature, dressed simply with extra virgin olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a burst of flavor.2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, ½ lemon juice
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Leonie Brittain
Would samphire be a good replacement for agretti?
Laura
Yes, it would be