Frequently Asked Questions
What is Martha Stewart's Classic Linguine with Clam Sauce?
It is a traditional Italian-inspired pasta dish featuring tender linguine, minced clams, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
The recipe makes 4 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains 400 calories.
What specific type of pasta is used?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of dried linguine.
Can I use fresh clams instead of canned?
Yes, though the recipe specifies 12 ounces of canned minced clams with juice for convenience.
How much garlic is required?
You need 2 garlic cloves, smashed and peeled.
Is this dish considered high protein?
Yes, it is tagged as high protein and contains 18g of protein per serving.
How long should the clam sauce simmer?
Simmer the sauce for about 5 minutes until it begins to slightly thicken.
Why should I reserve pasta cooking water?
Reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water helps adjust the sauce consistency and helps it coat the noodles.
What is the purpose of adding cold unsalted butter?
Adding 1 tablespoon of cold butter at the end helps emulsify the sauce for a richer, smoother texture.
What kind of olive oil is recommended?
The recipe specifies using 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil.
How do I cook the pasta to the correct texture?
Cook the linguine according to package instructions until it is al dente.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
Add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
Is there any preparation needed for the parsley?
Yes, 1/4 cup of Italian parsley should be chopped before adding it to the dish.
How much red pepper flakes should I add?
Use 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
You can, but the recipe suggests cold unsalted butter to better control the overall salt levels.
What is the fat content per serving?
There is 11g of fat in each serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
Each serving contains 58g of carbohydrates.
How much fiber is in a serving?
This recipe provides 2.5g of fiber per serving.
What is the initial step for preparing the pasta?
Fill a large pot with one gallon of water and one tablespoon of salt, then bring to a boil.
How long do I cook the final mixture once combined?
Cook the combined pasta and sauce over low heat for an additional minute to allow the flavors to absorb.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, it is tagged as both 'easy' and 'quick,' making it suitable for cooks of all levels.
What kind of pepper is used for seasoning?
Freshly ground pepper is added to taste.
What is the primary protein source in this recipe?
The primary protein source is the canned minced clams.
Should the garlic be browned during sautรฉing?
Yes, sautรฉ the garlic until it becomes golden brown, being careful not to burn it.
Is this dish considered a comfort food?
Yes, it is specifically tagged as a comfort food.
How much salt goes into the pasta water?
One tablespoon of salt is added to the one gallon of boiling water.
What type of parsley is best for this recipe?
Italian parsley (flat-leaf) is recommended for its vibrant flavor and freshness.
What is the total ingredient count?
There are 9 ingredients used in this recipe.
Who is the creator of this recipe?
This classic version of linguine with clam sauce was created by Martha Stewart.