Clams in Basil Garlic Pasta
Delight in the coastal flavors of Italy with this Clams in Basil Garlic Pasta recipe, a perfect harmony of briny clams, fragrant basil, and the warmth of sautéed garlic. Tender spaghetti is tossed in a light, flavorful sauce made with dry white wine, chicken or vegetable stock, and a hint of red pepper flakes for subtle heat. Lemon juice and fresh basil leaves add brightness, while a sprinkling of Parmesan (optional but irresistible) delivers a savory finish. With perfectly steamed clams as the star of the dish, this pasta is a sophisticated yet approachable meal that’s ready in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or an elegant date night. Serve with crusty bread for sopping up every last drop of the delectable sauce and enjoy a restaurant-quality seafood dish in the comfort of your own home.
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Ingredients
- 12 oz Spaghetti
- 2 lbs Fresh clams
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 6 pieces Garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 0.5 cup Dry white wine
- 0.5 cup Chicken or vegetable stock
- 0.5 tsp Red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
- 0 to taste Salt
- 0 to taste Black pepper
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese (optional), grated
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the spaghetti, and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2
Scrub the clams under cold running water to remove any sand or dirt. Discard any clams that are cracked or do not close when tapped lightly.
Step 3
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 4
Add the red pepper flakes and stir for an additional 30 seconds.
Step 5
Increase the heat to medium-high and pour in the white wine. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off.
Step 6
Add the chicken or vegetable stock, and then carefully place the cleaned clams into the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow the clams to steam for 6-8 minutes, or until they have opened. Discard any clams that do not open.
Step 7
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped basil and lemon juice. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 8
Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the clams and sauce. If the pasta seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until it reaches the desired consistency.
Step 9
Serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (1926.1g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2947.9 |
| Total Fat 97.2g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 30.6g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 4.0g | |
| Cholesterol 703.0mg | 0% |
| Sodium 5130.0mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 173.8g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 12.4g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 5.0g | |
| Protein 303.5g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 47.6IU | 0% |
| Calcium 2473.1mg | 0% |
| Iron 270.6mg | 0% |
| Potassium 6642.6mg | 0% |
Source of Calories