Spaghetti With Pesto And Clams
A vibrant pasta dish combining tender clams, fragrant pesto, and earthy mushrooms, perfect for seafood lovers and those craving a flavorful, quick Italian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the mushrooms and sauté them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large frying pan; set aside.
- Drain the canned chopped clams and set aside.
- In a food processor, combine dried basil leaves, fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, almonds or pine nuts, garlic cloves, and olive oil to make the pesto.
- Add chicken broth or water gradually to the pesto until desired consistency is reached.
- Cook the spaghetti noodles in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain.
- Add the drained clams and sautéed mushrooms to the pesto and gently mix.
- Combine the cooked spaghetti with the clam and pesto mixture, tossing to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier pesto, consider adding a bit of cream or Greek yogurt. You can substitute the almonds or pine nuts with walnuts or sunflower seeds if needed. If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto. Be sure not to overcook the spaghetti; it should be al dente for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a fresh side salad or some crusty garlic bread to complement the flavors. A glass of crisp white wine pairs beautifully with this spaghetti, enhancing the overall dining experience. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside Gorgonzola Chicken Breasts With Port Wine.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or chicken broth to prevent sticking. Avoid microwaving as it can overcook the pasta and make it mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti With Pesto And Clams contains roughly 1100 calories, with 10g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 96g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (39% of the Daily Value), iron (26% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 clams?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh clams for a more authentic taste. Just make sure to clean them thoroughly and steam them until they open before adding them to the pesto. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they remain tender.
What can I use if I don't have fresh parsley?
If fresh parsley is unavailable, you can substitute it with fresh spinach or arugula for a different flavor profile. Dried parsley can also work in a pinch, but reduce the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the clams and consider adding sautéed vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added texture and flavor. You can also include chickpeas for protein and a hearty feel.
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).