Minestra di vongole alla sarda

Fregola (sometimes spelled fregula) is a type of semolina pasta that looks like large, irregularly shaped couscous. It is a signature ingredient of Sardinian cuisine, and although I have seen it for sale at my Italian specialty market, it is not widely available. The more frequently stocked moughrabiye, better known as Israeli couscous, is a suitable substitute, or, in a pinch, you can use orzo or tiny pasta shells. Do not use regular couscous, however, as it is too fin