Nancy Clancy'S Red Clam Sauce(Yield: 4 Servings)
A rich, flavorful red clam sauce with garlic, basil, and Parmesan, perfect for pasta lovers seeking a savory seafood dish with a hint of herbs. Suitable for quick weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a saucepan.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. If you're out of clams, canned tuna can be a tasty substitute. Fresh basil can replace dried for a more vibrant taste. Make sure to use quality tomato paste for the best results, as it forms the base of this dish. This sauce also works well with pasta, such as fusilli or spaghetti.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this red clam sauce over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or linguine, for a satisfying meal. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread and a fresh green salad. For a complete Italian experience, consider serving it alongside Vegetable Stuffed Manicotti or a light appetizer of bruschetta. A glass of white wine complements the dish perfectly.
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 stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain the sauce's consistency. Avoid microwaving to prevent overcooking the clams and altering the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nancy Clancy'S Red Clam Sauce(Yield: 4 Servings) contains roughly 311 calories, with 17g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (102% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value), and potassium (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. At about 311 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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, but be sure to steam them until they open and then add them to the sauce. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, and reserve some clam juice to enhance the flavor of your sauce.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
While the sauce can be frozen, it's best to freeze it without the pasta. When ready to eat, thaw the sauce in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat and serve with freshly cooked pasta for optimal texture and taste.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, for a vegetarian version, simply omit the clams and replace them with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini. You can enhance the umami flavor by adding a bit of soy sauce or miso paste, making it a delightful option for those looking for vegetarian recipes.
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).