Parsley-Basil Clam Sauce
A flavorful and quick seafood sauce featuring minced clams, fresh herbs, garlic, butter, and olive oil, perfect for tossing with hot pasta. Its rich, savory profile with hints of parsley and basil makes it a delightful choice for seafood lovers and casual dinners alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute garlic in butter and olive oil for 3 minutes or until soft.
- Stir in the minced clams, liquid clam juice, chopped parsley, chopped basil, and pepper.
- Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes.
- Serve the clam sauce over hot spaghetti or linguini.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine while sautéing the garlic. If fresh basil isn't available, you can use 1 tablespoon of dried basil instead. For a spicier kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added. This clam sauce pairs beautifully with Linguine With White Clam Sauce, so feel free to experiment with different pasta types.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the clam sauce over freshly cooked spaghetti or linguine for a comforting meal. A side salad and crusty garlic bread make excellent accompaniments. For a complete dinner, consider pairing this dish with a light white wine or a refreshing sparkling water, enhancing the flavors of the seafood recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the clam sauce slowly on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the clams and change their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Parsley-Basil Clam Sauce contains roughly 901 calories, with 56g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (284% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 506mg per serving (22% 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 if you prefer. Steam them until they open, then add them to the sauce. However, this will require more cooking time, and you'll need to adjust the clam juice quantity to prevent the sauce from becoming too salty.
What can I substitute for butter?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with additional olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. This will maintain the richness of the sauce while accommodating dietary preferences.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this clam sauce gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta alternatives. There are many excellent options available, including chickpea, lentil, or brown rice pasta, which will complement the sauce nicely.
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).