Linguine With Spicy Clam Sauce

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

Linguine with a zesty, buttery clam sauce that bursts with garlic, pepper, and Parmesan, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels like a Mediterranean escape.

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Ingredients

  • 1 medium red onion
  • 2 Tbsp butter
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced or crushed
  • 2 Tbsp flour
  • 1 c chicken broth
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 lb linguine
  • 2 (6 oz.) cans chopped clams, drained
  • 1/3 c grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
  2. Meanwhile, thinly slice the onion and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, melt the butter in the oil over medium heat.
  4. Add the garlic and onion and sauté until the onion is translucent and beginning to brown slightly. Add the flour and cook, stirring, until the flour is no longer visible.
  5. Add the broth, red pepper flakes, black pepper and salt. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a spicier kick, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes according to your taste. If you don't have chicken broth, vegetable broth can be a great substitute. For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of cream or using a Cream Sauce For Pasta Recipes as a base. When cooking the linguine, ensure it's al dente for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top enhances the flavors, while a glass of white wine pairs beautifully with this spicy clam sauce. For a twist, try it alongside Pollo Con Crema E Funghi(Chicken With Cream And Mushrooms Perugia) for a delightful Italian dinner.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover linguine with clam sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out. Stir frequently until heated through to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Linguine With Spicy Clam Sauce contains roughly 1367 calories, with 6g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 143g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (142% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2062mg per serving (90% of the Daily Value).

1367 kcal 68% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6g 12% DV
Total Fat 142.9g 100% DV
Carbs 20g 7% DV
Fiber 4.2g 15% DV
Sugar 4.7g 9% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2062mg 90% DV
Potassium 376.5mg 8% DV
Cholesterol 172.8mg 58% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 162.1mcg 18% DV
Vitamin C 127.7mg 100% DV
Calcium 105.8mg 8% DV
Iron 2.4mg 13% DV
Diet fit Low-carb
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten 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

Can I use fresh clams instead of canned?

Yes, fresh clams can be used for a more authentic flavor. Just ensure they are cleaned thoroughly and steamed open before adding them to the sauce. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking the clams.

What can I use instead of linguine?

If you don't have linguine, other pasta types like spaghetti or fettuccine can work well. For a gluten-free option, try using rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. Each will provide a slightly different texture but will still complement the sauce nicely.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just cook the pasta when you're ready to serve, and combine it with the reheated sauce for a quick and easy meal.

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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