Tuna-Clam Spaghetti

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Mediterranean

A flavorful seafood pasta combining tender tuna, savory clams, garlic, and fresh parsley, perfect for a quick, satisfying Mediterranean-inspired meal suited for seafood lovers.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • vegetable oil
  • 6 1/2 to 7 oz. can tuna, drained and liquid reserved
  • 3 Tbsp. butter or margarine
  • 4 or 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 to 3 Tbsp. diced parsley flakes or 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 8 oz. can minced clams

Instructions

  1. Add enough vegetable oil to the tuna liquid to measure 1/4 cup. Heat in a saucepan with butter.
  2. Add garlic and parsley and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes.
  3. Add flaked tuna including broth and minced clams.
  4. Heat gently; season with salt and pepper if desired.
  5. Serve over hot cooked spaghetti.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine while sautéing the garlic and parsley. If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute the butter with olive oil. Fresh parsley can elevate the dish, but dried parsley works well in a pinch. To add some heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

This Tuna-Clam Spaghetti pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside steamed vegetables or a light Mediterranean dish like Gazpacho-Style Shrimp. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top can also enhance the flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the pasta from drying out. Heat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Tuna-Clam Spaghetti contains roughly 1509 calories, with 39g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 141g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (79% of the Daily Value), iron (57% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1047mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).

1509 kcal 75% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 39.3g 79% DV
Total Fat 140.5g 100% DV
Carbs 25.6g 9% DV
Fiber 4.9g 18% DV
Sugar 1.8g 4% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1046.8mg 46% DV
Potassium 1054.5mg 22% DV
Cholesterol 389.1mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 498.5mcg 55% DV
Vitamin C 16.9mg 19% DV
Vitamin D 2.1mcg 10% DV
Calcium 64.3mg 5% DV
Iron 10.3mg 57% DV
Diet fit High-protein
Contains Milk Fish Shellfish

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 they're available. Just ensure they are cleaned and cooked properly before adding them to the dish. Adjust cooking time accordingly, as fresh clams may take longer to open and integrate into the sauce.

What type of spaghetti works best for this dish?

Any type of spaghetti works well, but a thinner spaghetti or linguine may complement the light sauce better. Whole wheat pasta can be a healthier option, adding a nutty flavor that pairs nicely with the seafood.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it separately. Just cook the spaghetti right before serving to maintain its texture. Combine them just before serving for the best results.

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).

Mediterranean recipes → Seafood recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →