linguini with clam sauce recipe

linguini with clam sauce recipe

The Best linguini with clam sauce recipe

I’ve always been a fan of linguini with clam sauce, and my family loves it just as much as I do. This classic Italian recipe is a staple in our household, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether we’re having a quick weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this dish never fails to impress.

One of the things I love most about linguini with clam sauce is its rich history. This dish originated in Italy, where it’s known as ‘linguine con vongole.’ It’s a simple yet elegant combination of fresh clams, garlic, white wine, and herbs that’s been enjoyed for centuries.

But what really sets this dish apart is the technique involved in making it. The key to a great linguini with clam sauce is to cook the pasta just right – al dente is essential – and then toss it with a flavorful sauce made from the clams, garlic, and herbs. It’s a technique that requires some practice to get just right, but trust me when I say it’s worth the effort.

Not only does this dish taste amazing, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make at home. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can be enjoying this delicious Italian classic in no time. And let’s not forget the health benefits – this dish is packed with protein from the clams, vitamins from the herbs, and complex carbohydrates from the pasta.

It’s a well-rounded meal that will leave you feeling full and satisfied without weighing you down. My kids adore linguini with clam sauce almost as much as I do – they love the way the flavors all come together in perfect harmony. And let me tell you, it’s not just me who loves this dish – my entire family raves about it every time we have it for dinner.

We’ve even had guests over who’ve requested this very dish specifically because they heard how great it was from friends who’d tried it before.

Linguini with Clam Sauce

Linguini with Clam Sauce

4.7 from 1305 votes

A classic Italian pasta dish featuring tender linguini tossed in a savory sauce made with fresh clams, garlic, white wine, and parsley. This quick and flavorful meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

1 pound linguini
Salt for pasta water

For the Clam Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup dry white wine
2 cans (6.5 ounces each) chopped clams, drained with juice reserved
1/2 cup clam juice (from reserved liquid or bottled)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the linguini and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining in a colander.
4While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
6Pour in the white wine and reserved clam juice, then increase heat to medium-high.
7Let the liquid simmer until reduced by half, about 3 to 4 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
8Reduce heat to medium-low and add the chopped clams, parsley, red pepper flakes if using, and butter.
9Stir gently until the butter is melted and the clams are heated through, about 2 minutes.
10Season with salt and pepper to taste.
11Add the drained linguini to the skillet with the clam sauce.
12Toss well using tongs, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce seems dry, until the pasta is evenly coated.
13Serve immediately in warm bowls.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Colander
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 35mg🧂Sodium: 520mg🌾Total Carbs: 50g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

For best results, use fresh clams if available, steaming them in white wine until they open. Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.

Watch Video Of How Linguini with Clam Sauce Works

One of my favorite things about linguini with clam sauce is how well it keeps for leftovers – whether you’re reheating individual portions or storing leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

In either case, be sure to reheat your pasta gently over low heat until warmed through without drying out the delicate flavors of the clams and herbs.


In terms of serving ideas, I highly recommend pairing your linguini with clam sauce with some crusty bread on the side for dipping into any remaining juices at the table.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Linguini with Clam Sauce

Q: What type of pasta should I use?

A: For linguini with clam sauce, you’ll want to use traditional Italian-style linguini made from durum wheat semolina flour. This type of pasta has a slightly rough texture that holds onto the flavors of the sauce beautifully.

Q: Can I substitute clams with another type of seafood?

A: While clams are traditional in linguini with clam sauce, you can definitely experiment with other types of seafood if you prefer. Mussels or scallops would work well in place of clams, but keep in mind that their flavor profiles will be slightly different.

Q: Do I need to add any extra seasonings or spices?

A: Traditionally, linguini with clam sauce doesn’t include any additional seasonings or spices beyond salt and pepper – but feel free to experiment if you like! A sprinkle of parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice can add nice brightness to the dish.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prepare the clam sauce up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to serve.

Q: Is there anything else I should know about making linguini with clam sauce?

A: One thing to keep in mind is that linguini cooks relatively quickly – so make sure to have your water boiling and your pasta ready before adding it to the pan!

Q: Can I serve this recipe as an appetizer or side dish?

A: Absolutely! Linguini with clam sauce makes an excellent appetizer or side dish for any occasion.

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