clam white sauce recipe

The Best clam white sauce recipe

I’ve been making clam white sauce for years, and it’s still a staple in our household. My kids love it when I serve it with pasta or rice, and my husband appreciates the simplicity of the dish. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills.

I remember learning how to make clam white sauce from my mother, who learned it from her Italian grandmother. It’s a dish that’s been passed down through generations, and I’m happy to continue the tradition. The first time I made clam white sauce, I was hooked.

The creamy sauce, the tender clams, and the subtle flavor of garlic all came together to create a dish that was greater than the sum of its parts. As I continued to experiment with different recipes and techniques, I realized that the key to a great clam white sauce is all about balance. You want a rich, velvety sauce that coats your tongue without overpowering the delicate flavor of the clams.

And that’s exactly what this recipe delivers. One of the things I love about clam white sauce is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a main course, or use it as a side dish for something like grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

It’s also an excellent option for meal prep, as you can easily make a big batch and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. In terms of health benefits, clam white sauce is a great option for those looking for a low-carb or gluten-free meal option. The clams provide a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, while the garlic adds an extra boost of antioxidants and antibacterial properties.

As for tips and tricks, I find that using fresh clams is essential for getting the best flavor out of this dish. If you’re using canned clams, be sure to rinse them thoroughly before adding them to the sauce to avoid any excess saltiness.

Clam White Sauce Pasta

4.6 from 1156 votes

A creamy and comforting pasta dish featuring tender clams in a rich white sauce. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.

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

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz spaghetti
Salt for boiling water

For the Clams

2 dozen little neck clams
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 shallot, finely chopped
1 cup white wine
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

Extra chopped fresh parsley

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
3Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5Add garlic and shallot, and cook until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
6Be careful not to burn the garlic.
7Add the clams to the skillet, pour in the white wine, and cover the skillet.
8Cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the skillet occasionally, until the clams have opened.
9Discard any clams that do not open.
10Stir in the heavy cream and red pepper flakes (if using).
11Simmer for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
12If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
13Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
14Stir in the chopped parsley.
15Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the clam sauce.
16Toss gently to combine, adding more pasta water if needed to coat the pasta evenly.
17Divide the pasta among plates, ensuring each serving has a good amount of clams and sauce.
18Garnish with extra chopped parsley before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Tongs
Colander

📊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 linguine or fettuccine for the spaghetti. For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes.

The clam white sauce recipe is always a solid choice for any occasion. It’s a dish that can be easily scaled up or down, making it perfect for small family gatherings or larger parties.

The leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and they reheat beautifully. Just add a little more milk or cream and heat gently.

You can also freeze the sauce for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw and reheat, adding fresh clams just before serving.

This recipe is a great way to enjoy the flavors of the sea in a comforting, creamy dish that the whole family will love. It’s a versatile dish that can be served in many different ways, making it a great addition to your recipe collection.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Clam White Sauce Pasta

1. What type of pasta should I serve with clam white sauce?

You can serve clam white sauce with any type of pasta you like – spaghetti, linguine, fettuccine – whatever you prefer!

2. Can I use frozen clams instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen clams if you don’t have access to fresh ones.

3. How do I prevent the clams from becoming tough?

Make sure to cook the clams gently over low heat so they don’t become tough.

4. Can I add other ingredients to clam white sauce besides garlic?

Sure! Some other ingredients you might consider adding include diced onions, chopped parsley or basil.

5. Is clam white sauce suitable for vegans?

No – clam white sauce contains dairy products (such as butter) so it isn’t suitable for vegans.

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