Creamy Linguine with Clam Sauce
Indulge in this delightful Creamy Linguine with Clam Sauce, a classic Italian dish that brings together tender linguine pasta and a savory, garlicky clam sauce. The combination of fresh herbs and spices perfectly enhances the natural brininess of the clams, making this a flavorful one-dish meal that's perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a slice of crusty bread for a complete dining experience.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
2 tablespoons (none)
onion
1 medium (chopped)
garlic
4 cloves (minced)
canned chopped clams
2 (6 1/2 ounce) cans (drained, reserve liquid)
dried parsley
1 tablespoon (none)
oregano
1/2 teaspoon (none)
dried basil
1/2 teaspoon (none)
red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon (none)
salt
1 pinch (none)
pepper
1 pinch (none)
linguine
1 lb (cooked)
Instructions
1
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and tender, about 5 minutes.
3
Pour in the reserved clam juice and stir in the dried parsley, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over low heat, allowing the flavors to meld for about 5 minutes.
4
While the sauce simmers, cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5
Once the sauce has simmered, add the drained chopped clams and stir gently to combine. Remove the skillet from heat.
6
Toss the cooked linguine in the clam sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh parsley if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Linguine with Clam Sauce?
It is a classic Italian-inspired pasta dish featuring linguine tossed in a savory sauce made from garlic, onions, herbs, and canned clams.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 6 people.
Can I use fresh clams instead of canned ones?
Yes, you can use fresh clams, though you will need to steam them first to open them and collect the natural juices to replace the reserved liquid mentioned in the recipe.
What should I do with the liquid in the clam cans?
Do not discard it; you must reserve the liquid to create the base of the clam sauce.
Is this clam sauce spicy?
It has a very mild heat due to the inclusion of 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, which can be adjusted to your preference.
Can I substitute linguine with another type of pasta?
Yes, while linguine is traditional, spaghetti or fettuccine are excellent substitutes for this sauce.
How long does it take to sauté the onions?
The onions should be sautéed for about 5 minutes or until they become translucent and tender.
What herbs are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for dried parsley, oregano, and dried basil.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh herbs, but remember to use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to the dried measurement.
How do I ensure the pasta is al dente?
Follow the specific package instructions for your linguine and test it a minute or two before the suggested time to ensure it still has a firm bite.
What side dishes go well with this meal?
It is best served with a slice of crusty bread and a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
Is there dairy in this 'creamy' sauce?
This specific version achieves its texture through the combination of clam juice and olive oil, though you could add a splash of heavy cream if you prefer a richer finish.
Can I add white wine to the sauce?
Yes, adding a splash of dry white wine while simmering the clam juice adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe requires 4 cloves of minced garlic.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can this dish be frozen?
It is not recommended to freeze this dish as the texture of the clams and pasta may deteriorate upon thawing.
Is this recipe considered a quick dinner?
Yes, it is tagged as a 'quick dinner' because it uses canned clams and simple sautéing techniques.
Should I add more salt?
The recipe calls for a pinch of salt, but since canned clams can be naturally salty, it is best to taste the sauce before adding more.
What type of onion should I use?
A medium yellow or white onion works best for this savory sauce.
When do I add the clams to the skillet?
Add the drained chopped clams after the sauce has finished simmering, then stir gently to combine.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, simply substitute the 1 lb of linguine with your favorite gluten-free pasta alternative.
How long does the sauce simmer?
The sauce should simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the herbs and spices to meld with the clam juice.
Is olive oil the only fat used?
Yes, the recipe uses 2 tablespoons of olive oil to sauté the aromatics.
Can I add other seafood to this?
Certainly; shrimp or scallops would make a great addition to this linguine dish.
Do I need a large skillet?
Yes, a large skillet is necessary so you have enough room to toss the pound of cooked linguine with the sauce.
How do I reheat the pasta?
Reheat it gently on the stovetop with a small splash of water or clam juice to prevent the pasta from drying out.
What is the preparation for the clams?
The clams should be drained, and the liquid must be reserved for use in the sauce.
Can I use bottled minced garlic?
Yes, though fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor profile.
Is this a good recipe for beginners?
Absolutely, it is an easy recipe that uses basic cooking techniques and pantry staples.
Why is it called a one-dish meal?
It is considered a one-dish meal because it combines protein, carbohydrates, and flavor in a single satisfying pasta plate.