clams with red sauce recipe

clams with red sauce recipe

The Best clams with red sauce recipe

I have been making this clams with red sauce recipe for years, and it never fails to impress my family and friends. The dish originated from the Mediterranean region, where clams are a staple ingredient. The combination of tender clams, rich tomato sauce, and fragrant herbs creates a flavor profile that is both familiar and exciting.

I love how this recipe brings people together, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion like a holiday meal. My kids adore helping me in the kitchen, especially when we’re making this recipe. They love watching the clams open up and the sauce simmering away, filling the house with its mouthwatering aroma.

As for me, I appreciate how this recipe is so easy to customize to our tastes – we like to add some spicy kick with red pepper flakes or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This recipe is perfect for any occasion because it’s quick to make and can be adapted to suit our needs. Plus, it’s incredibly healthy, with all those vitamins and minerals from the clams and herbs.

My husband always jokes that this dish is his favorite way to get more vegetables into our diet! It’s funny how something as simple as a clam can become such an integral part of our family traditions. And did I mention that this recipe freezes beautifully?

We often make a big batch and stash it away for later use. It’s amazing how a few ingredients can come together to create something so magical.

Clams with Red Sauce

Clams with Red Sauce

4.8 from 1446 votes

Fresh clams simmered in a robust tomato sauce with garlic and white wine. This quick Italian-inspired dish is perfect served over pasta or with crusty bread.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Clams

4 pounds fresh littleneck or manila clams, scrubbed
3 tablespoons olive oil
6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
Salt to taste

For Serving

1 pound linguine or spaghetti, cooked al dente (optional)
Crusty bread for dipping

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2Add sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring frequently, until garlic is fragrant and just golden, about 1 minute.
3Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
4Add the crushed tomatoes, season with a pinch of salt, and bring the sauce to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
5Reduce heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld.
6Add the scrubbed clams to the pot, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and increase heat to medium-high.
7Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, shaking the pot once or twice, until all clams have opened (discard any that remain closed).
8Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
9Taste the sauce and adjust salt if needed.
10Serve immediately over cooked pasta or with crusty bread for dipping.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven with lid
Colander
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 60mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: Soak clams in cold salted water for 20 minutes before cooking to help release any sand. Discard any clams that remain closed after cooking.

Watch Video Of How Clams with Red Sauce Works

This clams with red sauce recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special event like a holiday party. We love serving it at family gatherings because everyone always enjoys digging into those tender clams and sopping up all that flavorful sauce with some crusty bread.

When reheating leftovers, be sure to add some extra liquid (such as white wine or broth) if needed – you don’t want those beautiful clams drying out! For storage ideas, consider dividing the cooled sauce into smaller portions and freezing them in ice cube trays for future meals.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Clams with Red Sauce

Q: What type of clams should I use for this recipe?

A: You can use any type of clam you like, but I prefer using littleneck or cherrystone clams for their sweet flavor and firm texture. If you’re using canned clams, make sure they’re packed in their own juice rather than water – this will help preserve the delicate flavor of the clams.

Q: Can I substitute other types of seafood in this recipe?

A: While you can use other types of seafood like mussels or scallops, keep in mind that they may require different cooking times – mussels are particularly prone to overcooking, so be sure to check them frequently.

Q: Is it necessary to use fresh herbs in this recipe?

A: No, you can definitely use dried herbs if you prefer – just be sure to adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before serving – just reheat it gently before serving over the cooked clams.

Q: How do I serve this dish?

A: Traditionally, this dish is served over crusty bread or with some crusty bread on the side – feel free to get creative with your serving style though! Some ideas include pairing it with pasta or rice for a heartier meal.

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