Lemon-Pepper Pasta With Clams
A vibrant lemon-pepper pasta with tender clams, bright citrus flavors, and fresh parsley, perfect for a quick, elegant seafood dinner that appeals to pasta lovers and seafood enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the canned clams and reserve the juice.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat; add diced onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Stir in the reserved clam juice, chicken broth, lemon juice, and grated lemon peel; bring to a boil.
- In a small bowl, combine cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water and whisk into the boiling broth mixture; cook for 1 minute.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the clams and chopped parsley.
- Cook pasta according to package directions, then combine with the clam sauce and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using fresh clams instead of canned. If you prefer a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. You can substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or use white wine for an extra layer of flavor. Fresh parsley can be replaced with basil for a different herbaceous note that complements Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Lemon-Pepper Pasta With Clams pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Chicken In Lemon And Capers for a delightful dinner spread. A glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the citrusy flavors perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta and clam sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to avoid drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the clams rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon-Pepper Pasta With Clams contains roughly 384 calories, with 5g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 another type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta. Adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to ensure it's cooked to your liking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the clam sauce in advance and store it separately from the pasta. Cook the pasta just before serving to keep it fresh. Combine the two just before serving to maintain the best texture.
What can I add to this recipe for more protein?
If you want to add more protein, consider including cooked shrimp or grilled chicken. Both options blend well with the flavors of the dish and enhance the overall nutritional value.
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).