Clam Sauce(For Spaghetti)
A savory clam sauce with garlic, parsley, and tomatoes, perfect for spaghetti, offering rich seafood flavors with a hint of herbs and spices, ideal for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop garlic and parsley together.
- Combine olive oil and butter in a skillet and heat.
- Add clams, garlic, parsley, red and black pepper; stir.
- If using canned clams, add salt.
- Cook for 5 minutes.
- Start boiling spaghetti water.
- Add chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, 2 tablespoons clam juice, and a pinch of flour to the skillet.
- Simmer and cook for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine along with the clams. If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the amount of tomato paste or add a bit more flour. Fresh clams are ideal, but canned clams can be used in a pinch. Just remember to rinse them well. This recipe can also be adapted for other seafood recipes by adding shrimp or mussels.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the clam sauce over freshly cooked spaghetti and garnish with additional parsley for freshness. A side of garlic bread pairs nicely, and a crisp green salad complements the dish well. For a twist, try this sauce with linguine for a variation similar to Salsa Di Vongoli(Spaghetti And Clams).
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover clam sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or clam juice to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the clams rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Clam Sauce(For Spaghetti) contains roughly 490 calories, with 15g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (84% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (83% of the Daily Value), and iron (62% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 500mg per serving (22% 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 frozen clams for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen clams, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Frozen clams might have a slightly different texture than fresh ones, but they will still work well in this clam sauce.
What can I substitute for fresh parsley?
If fresh parsley is unavailable, you can use dried parsley as a substitute. Use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated. Alternatively, fresh basil or cilantro can add a different flavor profile to the dish.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
To add more heat to the sauce, increase the amount of red pepper flakes. You can also incorporate some sliced fresh chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to elevate the spice level according to your preference.
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).