linguini and clam sauce recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best linguini and clam sauce recipe

Linguini and clam sauce is a classic Italian-American dish that has been a staple in my kitchen for years. It’s a comforting and flavorful meal that my family loves, especially my kids who are always eager to help with the garlic bread.

The combination of tender linguini pasta and a rich, savory clam sauce creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors, which is why I love this recipe. It’s a dish that works well for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a larger family gathering.

The key to this recipe is the freshness of the ingredients, particularly the clams. I always make sure to use the best quality clams I can find, as they really bring out the freshness of the dish.

This recipe also offers some health benefits, as clams are a good source of protein and essential minerals like iron and vitamin B12. Additionally, the use of olive oil and garlic in the sauce adds antioxidants and heart-healthy fats.

It’s a dish that not only tastes great but also nourishes the body, making it a win-win for any meal time.

Linguini and Clam Sauce

4.9 from 837 votes

Linguini and clam sauce is a classic Italian-American dish featuring tender linguini pasta in a rich, savory clam sauce. This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 45 minutes to prepare and cook.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Linguini

1 pound linguini pasta
1 tsp salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic minced
1 tsp red pepper flakes

For the Clam Sauce

2 dozen fresh littleneck clams, scrubbed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 shallot, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup white wine
1 cup canned diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2Add the linguini and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
3Drain the pasta and set it aside.
4Reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
5In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
6Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and saute until fragrant, about 1 minute.
7Be careful not to burn the garlic.
8Add the shallot to the skillet and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
9Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer.
10Cook until the liquid has reduced by half.
11Add the clams to the skillet, cover, and cook until the clams open, about 5-7 minutes.
12Discard any clams that do not open.
13Remove the clams from the skillet and set them aside.
14Stir in the diced tomatoes and red pepper flakes.
15Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
16If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
17Season with salt and pepper to taste.
18Add the cooked linguini to the skillet with the sauce.
19Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
20If needed, add more pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
21Stir in the chopped parsley.
22Plate the linguini and clam sauce, and top each serving with the cooked clams.
23Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious meal.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Large skillet
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

Linguini and clam sauce is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

I often make this dish for family gatherings, as it serves a good number of people and can be easily customized with additional vegetables or proteins. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

This dish is always a hit with my family and friends, and I’m sure it will be a favorite in your home as well.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Linguini and Clam Sauce

1. Can I use canned clams instead of fresh clams?

You can use canned clams in this recipe, but keep in mind that the flavor will not be as fresh or vibrant as it would be with fresh clams. If you use canned clams, drain and rinse them before adding to the sauce. You may also want to add a bit more garlic or herbs to enhance the flavor.

2. What if I can’t find linguini pasta? Can I use a different type of pasta?

While linguini is the traditional choice for this dish, you can use other long pasta shapes like spaghetti or fettuccine. The key is to use a pasta that can be easily coated in the sauce.

3. Can this recipe be made vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian. Simply omit the clams and add more vegetables to the sauce, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. If you want to add a similar seafood flavor, you could also add a bit of seaweed or nori to the sauce.

4. How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a bit of water or broth to the sauce to help rehydrate the pasta. You can reheat the dish in the microwave or on the stove over low heat.

5. Can I freeze this dish?

While you can freeze the sauce, it’s not recommended to freeze the cooked pasta as it can become mushy when thawed. If you want to freeze the sauce, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw the sauce in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove. Cook fresh pasta to serve with the thawed sauce.

Similar Posts