Linguini
A flavorful linguini dish featuring tender clams, garlic, parsley, and a subtle basil and butter sauce, perfect for seafood lovers and elegant yet simple dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a pan, simmer butter, oil, garlic, onions, and parsley; add the clams, clam juice, and basil.
- Simmer gently; do not bring to a boil.
- In the remaining clam juice, add cornstarch and stir to combine.
- Pour the cornstarch mixture into the clam mixture and stir until thickened.
- Pour the sauce over cooked linguini and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh clams instead of canned, though you may need to adjust the cooking time. If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the butter and oil or substitute with a healthier option like olive oil. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can also enhance the dish. Serve it with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, similar to what you’d find in Creamy Shrimp Scampi Fettucine.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp Italian Romaine Salad for a refreshing side. You can also serve it alongside garlic bread or a light vegetable medley to round out the meal. For a more decadent experience, consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover linguini sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain the desired consistency. Avoid reheating in the microwave to prevent the sauce from separating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Linguini contains roughly 282 calories, with 3g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 17g fat.
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, fresh clams can be used instead of canned. You will need to steam them until they open, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to discard any clams that do not open. Using fresh clams adds a delightful flavor to the dish, making it even more enjoyable.
What type of linguini should I use for this recipe?
You can use regular or whole wheat linguini based on your preference. Gluten-free linguini is also an option if you have dietary restrictions. The key is to cook the pasta al dente to ensure it holds up well when mixed with the clam sauce.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers can be added to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. Simply sauté them along with the garlic and onions to incorporate them into the dish seamlessly.
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).