White Clam Sauce Spaghetti
A flavorful seafood pasta featuring tender clams, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, perfect for seafood lovers seeking a quick, satisfying Italian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the margarine and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped green onions and sauté briefly until fragrant.
- Stir in oregano, basil, crushed garlic, chopped tomato, sliced mushrooms, salt, pepper, and clam juice; simmer briefly.
- Add the canned clams with juice and keep hot.
- Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and return to the pot.
- Add the clam sauce to the spaghetti and toss to combine.
- Serve hot, sprinkled with Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine while sautéing the vegetables. If you prefer a lighter sauce, use less margarine and substitute with extra olive oil. Fresh clams can also be used instead of canned, but ensure they are cleaned and cooked properly. Pair this dish with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. It pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. For a delightful pairing, consider serving it with a glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, which complements the seafood beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the spaghetti with clam sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out, and heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of White Clam Sauce Spaghetti contains roughly 194 calories, with 7g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (129% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (93% of the Daily Value), and calcium (79% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1780mg per serving (77% 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 thoroughly and cooked until they open, then incorporate them into the sauce. This will give your dish a fresher taste and a more authentic seafood experience.
What type of pasta is best for this sauce?
While spaghetti works well, you could also use linguine for a slightly different texture that holds the sauce beautifully. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you might consider pairing the clam sauce with a vegetable-based pasta.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, include red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste, keeping in mind that the spice will intensify as it cooks. This will enhance the flavor profile without overpowering 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).