1pound fideo or other very thin pasta, in 2-inch lengths or shorter
Salt and pepper
1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1pound cockles or small clams, well washed
1pound mussels, well washed
1/2cup stock (optional)
8 to 12 large shrimp, shells on
4 to 8 sea scallops, cut in half through their equators
1/2cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
Lemon wedge
Instructions
Put oil in a skillet at least 12 inches across, and turn heat to medium-high. A minute later add noodles; sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring almost constantly, until they darken. Try to avoid letting more than a few pieces blacken.
Add saffron, paprika, and garlic, and stir for a minute more. Add clams and mussels and about 1/2 cup water (or stock) and continue to cook, stirring. Depending on how much liquid the clams and mussels release, you may have to add a little more liquid. Continue to cook and stir until the pasta is nearly tender about 10 minutes.
Add shrimp and scallops and cook about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cooked through. Stir in parsley, taste and adjust seasoning, and serve with lemon wedges.