Red Clam Sauce
Red Clam Sauce is a flavorful, quick-to-make Italian-inspired dish featuring tender chopped clams in a savory tomato and wine sauce. Perfect for seafood lovers, it pairs beautifully with pasta and offers a rich, garlicky taste with hints of parsley. Ideal for a comforting weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped canned baby clams in olive oil and butter mixture for 2 minutes; add minced garlic, chopped onion, and dried parsley flakes to the clams.
- Saute for an additional 2 minutes; add white wine, tomato sauce, and more parsley if desired.
- Add salt to taste, then simmer on low heat for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Serve hot over linguine or spaghetti.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of lemon juice to brighten the sauce. If you don't have white wine, chicken broth or vegetable broth can work as substitutes. Fresh parsley can replace dried if you have it on hand, using three times the amount. Make sure not to overcook the clams to keep their tender texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the red clam sauce hot over linguine or spaghetti for a classic dish. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread to complement the meal. For a special touch, consider finishing the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. This recipe fits perfectly into your collection of Italian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover red clam sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking the clams. You can also add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Clam Sauce contains roughly 1069 calories, with 13g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 87g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (110% of the Daily Value), iron (68% of the Daily Value), and calcium (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1845mg per serving (80% 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 ones?
Yes, you can use fresh clams, but you'll need to steam or cook them separately before adding them to the sauce. Be sure to discard any clams that do not open during cooking, as they can be unsafe to eat. Fresh clams will give the dish a more vibrant flavor and texture.
What pasta works best with red clam sauce?
Linguine and spaghetti are the most traditional choices for serving with red clam sauce, but you can also use fettuccine or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Choose a pasta shape that can hold onto the sauce well for a satisfying bite.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently before serving. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste 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).