Clam Sauce For Linguini
Creamy clam sauce infused with fennel seed and mushrooms, perfect over hot linguini. Rich, flavorful, and quick to prepare, ideal for a satisfying seafood pasta dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place butter, chopped onion, chopped parsley, and fennel seed in a 12-cup casserole.
- Cover and microwave on High for 3 minutes.
- Add diced mushrooms and season with salt and pepper.
- Continue microwaving covered for 3 minutes.
- Sprinkle in flour and mix until well incorporated.
- Season with paprika.
- Pour in heated chicken stock and reserved clam juice.
- Microwave uncovered for 7 minutes, stirring twice during cooking.
- Add clams and stir in heavy cream.
- Let stand uncovered on the counter.
- Spoon sauce over hot cooked linguini and serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when cooking the onions. If you don't have fennel seeds, you can substitute with a pinch of anise or omit them entirely. Fresh clams can also be used instead of canned for an authentic taste, just ensure to steam them until they open. Be mindful of the salt added, as the clam juice can be salty.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the clam sauce over hot cooked linguini for a delightful meal. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can enhance the flavors. Pair this dish with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired dinner. It also complements white wines beautifully, making it a great choice for entertaining.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover clam sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or cream if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving, as it can change the texture of the clams.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Clam Sauce For Linguini contains roughly 1239 calories, with 40g protein, 219g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (189% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (176% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (131% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 994mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of pasta for this clam sauce?
Yes, while linguini is traditional, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti or fettuccine. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the pasta is perfectly al dente.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
While the sauce can be frozen, the texture of the clams may change upon thawing. If you plan to freeze it, consider omitting the clams and adding them fresh when reheating. This will help maintain the best texture and flavor.
What can I serve with clam sauce for linguini?
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and crusty garlic bread. You might also consider serving it alongside a light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, to enhance the seafood flavors. For a heartier meal, you could offer a side of roasted vegetables.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).