Few dishes capture the essence of seaside dining quite like clam linguine. This simple yet elegant dish brings together tender clams, savory garlic, and silky pasta for a meal that feels like pure indulgence. Rooted in Italian coastal traditions, clam linguine is a celebration of fresh, straightforward ingredients that come together beautifully in just one dish. Whether you're preparing a casual dinner or impressing guests, this recipe has all the charm and flavor you need.
Ingredients You'll Need
For 4 servings of clam linguine, gather the following ingredients:
- 12 ounces linguine pasta
- 2 pounds fresh clams (such as littlenecks), scrubbed clean
- 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for a richer sauce)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice of half a lemon, plus lemon wedges for serving
Tips for Selecting Clams
When picking clams, choose ones with tightly shut shells or those that close when lightly tapped. Open or cracked clams should be discarded. Fresh clams are key to making this dish sing!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Clams
Before cooking, soak the clams in cold, salted water for 20–30 minutes. This process helps them purge any sand or grit inside their shells. Afterward, give them one final rinse under cold running water and set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine until just shy of al dente (it will cook a bit more in the sauce). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the rest. Set the pasta aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic slices and crushed red pepper flakes (if using), stirring until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes. Be careful not to brown the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
4. Add the Clams and Wine
Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the cleaned clams to the skillet, followed by the white wine. Cover with a lid and allow the clams to steam for about 6–8 minutes, or until their shells open. Discard any clams that remain closed after cooking.
5. Create the Sauce
Uncover the skillet and use a slotted spoon to transfer the clams to a bowl, leaving the cooking liquid in the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the butter, if desired, along with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
6. Combine and Toss
Add the drained linguine to the skillet and toss to coat, gradually adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light, silky sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Stir in the parsley and add the clams back to the pan.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Pile the clam linguine onto serving plates or a platter. Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the dish. Pair with crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.
Wine Pairing and Sides
For wine, a crisp, dry white complements the briny clams perfectly. Try Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or a light Chablis. If you're not into wine, sparkling water with a twist of lemon also works well.
Looking for side dishes to round out your meal? A bright arugula salad with shaved Parmesan and lemon vinaigrette is a great choice. Or, keep things simple with roasted asparagus or steamed green beans drizzled with olive oil.
Cooking Tips for Perfection
- Don’t overcook the clams. They only need a few minutes in the pan to open. Overcooked clams turn rubbery and lose their delicate flavor.
- Don’t skip the pasta water. It’s starch-rich and helps bind the sauce to the pasta for a creamy, cohesive dish.
- Experiment with herbs. While parsley is classic, a sprinkle of fresh basil or chives can add a twist.
Try This Recipe Today!
Clam linguine is for anyone who loves bold flavors with a touch of simplicity. The fresh, briny clams, fragrant garlic, and luscious pasta create a dish that's hard to resist. Whether you're savoring it with loved ones or enjoying a quiet dinner for one, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Grab your ingredients and give this recipe a try tonight. We guarantee it’ll transport you to a cozy seaside trattoria with every bite!
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