White Clam Sauce(Salsa Di Vongole)
A flavorful, garlic-infused white clam sauce featuring tender clams and fresh parsley, perfect for seafood lovers and ideal served over pasta for a quick, elegant meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the canned clams, reserving the liquid, and set aside.
- In a skillet, slowly heat the olive oil and butter together.
- Add the crushed garlic and sauté until golden.
- Remove the skillet from heat.
- Stir in the reserved clam liquid, chopped parsley, and salt; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes.
- Add the clams and simmer for 3 minutes.
- Pour the sauce over cooked spaghetti or linguini and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine while sautéing the garlic. If you prefer a spicier kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the dish. If you can't find baby clams, chopped canned clams work well too. Fresh parsley can be substituted with dried if needed, but use less as it's more concentrated.
Serving Suggestions
This white clam sauce pairs beautifully with spaghetti or linguini, making it a perfect main dish. Consider serving it alongside a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For an Italian twist, you might also enjoy it with a side of Italian recipes like Rustic Pasta or Prawns In Garlic-Tomato Sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the sauce on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it appears too thick. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the clams tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of White Clam Sauce(Salsa Di Vongole) contains roughly 1078 calories, with 12g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 107g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (97% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), and potassium (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 524mg per serving (23% 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 ones?
Yes, you can use fresh clams. Be sure to clean them thoroughly and steam them until they open before adding to the sauce. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
What other types of pasta work with this sauce?
While spaghetti and linguini are traditional, you can use fettuccine, pappardelle, or even gluten-free pasta if you prefer. The sauce complements various pasta shapes, so feel free to experiment.
How can I make this dish creamier?
For a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese just before serving. This will give the sauce a luxurious texture that pairs well with the clams.
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).