Mom'S Clam Sauce
A flavorful and aromatic clam sauce with garlic, basil, parsley, and tarragon, perfect for seafood lovers and ideal served over pasta or rice dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute minced garlic in olive oil until light brown.
- Drain the canned clams.
- Add only the juice from the clams to the sauteed garlic.
- Save the bottled clam juice.
- Add salt, pepper, and sweet basil to the garlic and juice mixture.
- Heat the mixture for 10 minutes over medium heat.
- Add the drained clams to the sauce.
- Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in chopped parsley and tarragon just before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. If you don't have sweet basil, fresh oregano or thyme can work as substitutes. When sautéing garlic, be careful not to let it burn, as this can impart a bitter taste. This sauce pairs beautifully with Lemon-Garlic Shrimp Kabobs for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the clam sauce over your choice of pasta, such as linguine or spaghetti, for a delightful seafood dish. It also pairs well with a side of garlic bread and a fresh Spinach & Mango Salad With Shrimp for a refreshing contrast. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top can elevate the dish even further.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover clam sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of clam juice or water if it’s too thick. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the clams rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Clam Sauce contains roughly 23 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 587mg per serving (26% 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 for a more authentic flavor. Steam about 1 to 1.5 pounds of fresh clams until they open, then add them to the sauce at the end of cooking. Just be sure to reserve some of the cooking liquid to add depth to your sauce.
How do I adjust the seasoning to my taste?
Start with the recommended amounts of salt and pepper, then taste the sauce as it simmers. You can always add more seasoning, but be careful not to overdo it. Fresh herbs like parsley can also enhance the flavor without adding extra salt.
What can I serve with clam sauce?
Clam sauce is versatile and can be served with various sides. It goes well with crusty bread for dipping, a simple green salad, or even roasted vegetables. Pairing it with a refreshing Potato Salad Nicoise can also complement the meal beautifully.
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).