Spaghetti with Clams: A Deliciously Simple Seafood Delight

If you’re looking for a quick yet impressive dish to serve for dinner, Spaghetti with Clams is the perfect choice. This classic Italian recipe combines the briny flavor of fresh clams with al dente spaghetti, all tossed in a fragrant garlic and white wine sauce. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also brings a taste of the sea right to your dining table. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making the best Spaghetti with Clams, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, and more.

Ingredients

To make a delicious plate of Spaghetti with Clams, you will need the following ingredients:

For 4 Servings:

• Spaghetti: 400 grams (14 oz)
• Fresh clams: 1 kg (2.2 lbs), preferably littleneck or Manila clams
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
• Olive oil: 60 ml (1/4 cup)
• White wine: 120 ml (1/2 cup), dry white wine like Pinot Grigio
• Red pepper flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (optional, for heat)
• Fresh parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped
• Lemon: 1, zested and juiced
• Salt and pepper: to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Clams

1. Soak the Clams: Place the clams in a bowl of cold water with a tablespoon of salt. Let them soak for about 30 minutes to an hour. This helps to remove any sand or grit.
2. Rinse: After soaking, rinse the clams under cold running water to remove any remaining sand.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Cook Spaghetti: Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
2. Add Clams: Add the cleaned clams to the skillet, followed by the white wine and red pepper flakes (if using). Cover the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the clams have opened. Discard any clams that remain closed.
3. Combine: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the clams. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

1. Season: Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Plate: Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

Spaghetti with Clams: Cooking Tips

• Choosing Clams: Look for clams that are tightly closed. If any are open, give them a gentle tap; if they don’t close, discard them.
• Wine Selection: A dry white wine enhances the flavor of the dish. Avoid sweet wines as they can alter the taste.
• Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water is starchy and helps to bind the sauce to the spaghetti, making it creamier.

Spaghetti with Clams: Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving of Spaghetti with Clams:

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg

Storage Advice

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the texture of the clams may change upon thawing.

Spaghetti with Clams Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute clams with sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy Version: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme for a unique flavor profile.

Spaghetti with Clams FAQ

Can I use canned clams instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned clams in a pinch. Just add them at the end of cooking to heat through, as they are already cooked.

What type of wine is best for cooking?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best for this recipe.

How do I know when the clams are cooked?

Clams are cooked when they open up. Discard any that remain closed after cooking.

Conclusion

Spaghetti with Clams is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the ocean to your table. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. We hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as we do! Don’t forget to share your results and any variations you try in the comments below.

Ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious dish? Gather your ingredients and start cooking! If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it on social media and tag us!