Cheap Easy Clam Sauce for Pasta
Indulge in the simplicity and bold flavors of this Cheap Easy Clam Sauce for Pasta, a budget-friendly recipe perfect for weeknight dinners. With just a handful of pantry staples—like canned clams, olive oil, garlic, and a touch of red pepper flakes—this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, delivering a briny, garlicky sauce that’s light yet satisfying. A splash of optional white wine adds a layer of sophistication, while a sprinkle of parmesan cheese elevates the dish to restaurant-quality. Whether you’re feeding a family or dining solo, this quick and easy pasta recipe pairs beautifully with spaghetti or any pasta you love, making it a go-to for effortless comfort food packed with coastal charm.
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Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 cans (6.5 oz each) canned chopped clams (including juice)
- 0.25 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
- 0 salt (to taste)
- 0 parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti or pasta of choice according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 3
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 4
Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds.
Step 5
Add the canned chopped clams, including their juice, to the skillet. If using dry white wine, pour it in as well. Stir to combine.
Step 6
Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce slightly.
Step 7
Stir in the dried parsley, black pepper, and salt to taste. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Step 8
Toss the cooked pasta with the clam sauce in the skillet, ensuring the pasta is coated evenly.
Step 9
Serve immediately, garnished with grated parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (518.3g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1041.8 |
| Total Fat 48.1g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 8.3g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 4.0g | |
| Cholesterol 16.3mg | 0% |
| Sodium 739.4mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 113.9g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 7.0g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 2.9g | |
| Protein 28.2g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 131.0mg | 0% |
| Iron 5.5mg | 0% |
| Potassium 349.8mg | 0% |
Source of Calories