Mixed Herb Spaghetti And Clam Sauce
A vibrant pasta dish featuring fresh herbs, tender clams, and a flavorful tomato and wine sauce, perfect for seafood lovers and those seeking a savory, quick meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat chopped tomatoes, tomato juice, wine, lemon juice, oil, salt, and pepper to boiling in a Dutch oven.
- Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
- Stir in chopped fresh parsley, dried basil leaves, and drained whole baby clams.
- Serve over cooked spaghetti.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier sauce, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the mix. If you don't have dry white wine, use additional tomato juice or broth for a similar flavor. Fresh herbs can be substituted with dried, but use only a third of the amount as dried herbs are more potent. This dish is reminiscent of Italian recipes that highlight fresh, vibrant flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mixed Herb Spaghetti and Clam Sauce with a sprinkle of extra parsley on top for garnish. A side of garlic bread complements the dish well, and a light green salad adds freshness. This recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pasta rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mixed Herb Spaghetti And Clam Sauce contains roughly 220 calories, with 10g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2151mg per serving (94% 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! Just steam them until they open, then add them to the sauce at the end of cooking. Make sure to discard any clams that do not open, as they are not safe to eat.
What type of spaghetti works best for this dish?
Any spaghetti will work, but a thicker pasta like fettuccine or linguine can hold the sauce better. Whole wheat spaghetti is a nutritious alternative that also pairs well with the clams and herbs.
How can I add more flavor to the sauce?
Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top can also enhance the overall flavor profile 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).