Garlicky Clams

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Mediterranean

Garlicky clams with a splash of white wine and fresh parsley make an irresistible seafood dish. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe highlights the natural briny sweetness of clams complemented by aromatic garlic and herbs, served over tender linguine for a satisfying meal.

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Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 2 dozen Little Neck clams, cleaned and scrubbed
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
  • 2 Tbsp. chopped garlic
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine
  • 1 pound linguine, cooked until tender
  • 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh parsley leaves

Instructions

  1. In a large sauté pan with a lid, add the olive oil and heat over medium heat.
  2. Add the cleaned clams, season with salt and pepper, cover, and sauté for 6 to 8 minutes until shells open; discard any that do not open.
  3. Add the chopped onions, garlic, and white wine to the pan. Continue to sauté for 2 minutes.
  4. Add the cooked linguine to the pan and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for another 2 minutes.
  5. Stir in the chopped parsley leaves, mix well, and serve on a large platter.
  6. Drizzle with olive oil before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, or substituting the white wine with a splash of lemon juice. If fresh clams aren't available, canned clams can work in a pinch but adjust the cooking time. Be sure to use a high-quality olive oil to enhance the dish's richness. Pair this with a side of garlic bread for a delightful meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Garlicky Clams dish on a large platter, garnished with additional parsley for a fresh touch. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. For a complete seafood experience, consider serving it alongside Spinach With Crab Meat or a light white wine to complement the flavors of the clams.

Storage & Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the dish in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the clams rubbery.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Garlicky Clams contains roughly 302 calories, with 6g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

302 kcal 15% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.7g 11% DV
Total Fat 17.5g 22% DV
Carbs 27.1g 10% DV
Fiber 3.9g 14% DV
Sugar 3.4g 7% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 297.6mg 13% DV
Potassium 570.8mg 12% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 2mcg
Vitamin C 12mg 13% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 35.5mg 3% DV
Iron 5.3mg 29% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Shellfish

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

How do I know if the clams are fresh?

Fresh clams should be tightly closed or close when tapped. Discard any clams that remain open before cooking. Always purchase from a reputable source and store them in a cool, moist environment until ready to use.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, while linguine is traditional, you can substitute with spaghetti, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta if desired. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to ensure it reaches the perfect tenderness.

What can I substitute for white wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, you can replace it with vegetable broth or a mixture of water and a splash of vinegar, such as white wine vinegar or lemon juice, to maintain the acidity and enhance the flavors of the dish.

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).

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