Spaghetti With Clam Sauce(Quick, Delicious And Low-Fat)
A quick, flavorful pasta dish featuring tender clams in a fragrant garlic and herb sauce, perfect for seafood lovers seeking a light, low-fat meal. Suitable for weeknights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the clams, reserving the liquid.
- Heat olive oil in a 1-quart saucepan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook until lightly brown.
- Add dried basil, dried oregano, dried parsley, crushed red pepper, and the reserved clam liquid; heat to boiling.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes to blend flavors.
- Add the clams to the sauce.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, drain, and serve with the clam sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce after sautéing the garlic. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the spaghetti with gluten-free pasta. Fresh herbs can enhance the dish; feel free to use fresh basil or parsley instead of dried. For added heat, use more crushed red pepper or a dash of cayenne. Pair with Italian Oyster Crackers for a delightful crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaghetti with clam sauce garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a light green salad to balance the flavors. For a seafood-themed dinner, consider serving it alongside Shrimp Linguine(Serves 6 To 8 People) or other seafood recipes for a delightful meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover clam sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if necessary. The spaghetti can be stored separately to prevent it from becoming mushy. When ready to serve, combine the reheated sauce with freshly cooked spaghetti for best results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti With Clam Sauce(Quick, Delicious And Low-Fat) contains roughly 487 calories, with 22g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (226% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 ensure they are cleaned properly and steamed until they open. Reserve the cooking liquid and add it to your sauce for enhanced flavor. Fresh clams will provide a more authentic taste, but be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
What can I substitute for olive oil?
If you don't have olive oil, you can use another oil like avocado oil or canola oil. Each will impart a slightly different flavor, but they will work well in this recipe. For a buttery flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of oil.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the spiciness, you can add more crushed red pepper or incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the sauce. Additionally, consider serving with a sprinkle of chili flakes on top just before serving for an extra kick.
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).