Easy Linguini And Clam Sauce
A quick and flavorful linguini dish featuring savory clam sauce with garlic, onion, and basil, perfect for seafood lovers and weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Begin cooking pasta according to directions on package.
- Saute onion and garlic in olive oil.
- Add mushroom soup, undrained can of clams, basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Serve the clam sauce over the cooked pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sautéed onion and garlic. If you're short on time, you can substitute fresh clams with canned clams, as in this recipe. Fresh basil can be replaced with dried basil, using about one-third the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. For a twist, try adding some crushed red pepper for a bit of heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the linguini and clam sauce with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad, like Antipasto Salad from The Simply Italian Recipe Book, for a complete meal. A light white wine pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the dish. For added texture, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta and clam sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent sticking. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the pasta and change the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Linguini And Clam Sauce contains roughly 422 calories, with 9g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), iron (18% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 601mg per serving (26% 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 fresh clams instead of canned ones?
Yes, you can use fresh clams, but be sure to clean and steam them before adding them to the sauce. Adjust the cooking time to ensure the clams open properly, and add them after the soup has heated through.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
While linguini is traditional, you can use any long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine. The key is to ensure the sauce clings well to the pasta, so choose one with a similar shape that holds sauce well.
How can I make this recipe more flavorful?
Enhance the flavor by incorporating herbs such as parsley or thyme, or add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. For a heartier dish, consider including diced tomatoes or spinach, creating a variation similar to Clam And Spinach Pasta.
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).