Lemon Clam Spaghetti
A bright, buttery pasta that pairs zesty lemon with briny clams, topped with Parmesan and parsley—perfect for a quick, elegant weeknight dinner for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat 3 tablespoons of butter and olive oil in a heavy pan; sauté onion and garlic until tender.
- Add clam liquid, lemon juice, parsley, grated lemon peel, pepper, and bay leaf; simmer until liquid reduces to about 1 cup.
- Remove the bay leaf.
- Stir in the clams and heat through.
- Add the remaining butter and stir until melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream when you stir in the clams. If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried parsley can work in a pinch, though fresh is preferred for flavor. You can also substitute the clams with shrimp for a different seafood experience. Remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly for shrimp.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Lemon Clam Spaghetti with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Sarah'S Vegetable Antipasto for a delightful appetizer. A chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the lemon and seafood flavors perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the pasta and seafood.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Clam Spaghetti contains roughly 886 calories, with 36g protein, 132g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (182% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (176% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 464mg per serving (20% 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?
Yes, you can use fresh clams! Use about 1 pound of fresh clams, scrub them well, and steam them open in the pan before adding the other ingredients. This will add a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish.
What pasta can I use in this recipe?
While spaghetti is traditional, you can substitute with linguini or fettuccine for a different texture. Clam Linguini is a great alternative that enhances the seafood experience. Just ensure to cook the pasta al dente before adding to the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it separately. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and heat the sauce before combining. This helps maintain the best texture and flavor.
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).