Spaghetti With Clam Sauce
A quick and flavorful Italian-inspired dish featuring tender clams in a garlic, herb, and red pepper sauce served over al dente spaghetti. Perfect for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the canned clams, reserving the liquid.
- Heat olive oil in a 1-quart saucepan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook until light brown.
- Add basil, oregano, parsley, crushed red pepper, and reserved clam liquid. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the clams and cook, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- While the clam sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to package directions.
- Drain the cooked spaghetti.
- Serve the clam sauce over hot spaghetti and sprinkle with cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce after sautéing the garlic. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute fresh clams for canned ones, adjusting cooking times accordingly. Fresh herbs like thyme or cilantro can replace dried parsley for a fresher taste. Pairing with garlic bread or a side salad enhances the meal, or explore other Italian recipes that feature seafood.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the clam sauce over hot spaghetti or try it with angel hair pasta for a delicate touch. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or explore similar seafood recipes to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm the clam sauce in a saucepan over low heat to prevent overcooking the clams. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to maintain the sauce's consistency. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the clams rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti With Clam Sauce contains roughly 119 calories, with 5g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (295% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1046mg per serving (45% 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 make sure to clean and steam them before adding to the sauce. Fresh clams will add a wonderful texture and flavor. Adjust the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked and open before serving.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper or incorporate fresh chili peppers into the sauce. You can also serve with a side of spicy marinara or a drizzle of hot sauce for those who enjoy an extra kick.
What type of pasta is best for clam sauce?
While spaghetti is traditional, linguine or fettuccine can also work beautifully with clam sauce. For a lighter option, angel hair pasta is a great choice as it absorbs the sauce well. Ultimately, it depends on your personal preference!
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).