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Linguine with Red Clam Sauce
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Linguini and clams is nothing new, but red sauce adds a twist to the classic. Plenty of fresh-grated parmesan and basil keeps the dish light enough to still serve with a glass of white.
serves/makes:
ready in:
under 30 minutes
under 30 minutes
2 reviews
ingredients
8 ounces linguine pasta, uncooked
non-stick cooking spray
1/4 cup chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 ounce size) diced tomatoes, undrained
8 ounces tomato sauce
1/4 cup dry white wine
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 can (12 ounce size) minced clams, drained
salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
directions
Cook the pasta in a large pan of boiling water until al dente. Drain well.
Meanwhile, place a large skillet coated with cooking spray over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until tender, about 4 minutes.
Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, white wine, basil, and crushed red pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let cook for 10 minutes, uncovered.
Add the clams to the sauce. Let cook for 2 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
Place the drained pasta in a serving bowl. Top with the clam sauce. Sprinkle with the parmesan and serve immediately.
recipe tips
Try different types of pasta shapes.
Reserve some pasta water to add to the sauce if it becomes too thick.
You can add additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less crushed red pepper flakes.
common recipe questions
What type of pasta is recommended for Linguine with Red Clam Sauce?
Linguine is recommended for this recipe, as its shape and texture hold up well with the red clam sauce. You can also use spaghetti (rounder), fettuccine (wider), or tagliatelle (narrower).
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes?
You can use fresh tomatoes in place of canned diced tomatoes, but make sure to adjust the liquid and cooking time to account for the difference in moisture content.
What can I substitute for white wine in the sauce?
You can substitute broth (chicken, vegetable, seafood) for the white wine in the sauce for a non-alcoholic version.
Can I use fresh clams instead of canned minced clams?
You can use fresh clams in place of canned minced clams, but make sure to adjust the cooking time and method to make sure they are cooked through.
Can I use pecorino cheese instead of Parmesan?
You can use pecorino cheese in place of Parmesan for a slightly sharper flavor, but keep in mind that it may change the overall taste of the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can make the sauce up until adding the clams. Cool and refrigerate. When ready to serve, cook the pasta, gently reheat the sauce, add the clams and proceed as directed.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, leftovers freeze well. Cool completely then store in a airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge then reheat gently.
tools needed
Large Pan: For boiling the pasta before draining.
Large Skillet: For cooking the onion and garlic before adding the rest of the ingredients for the red clam sauce.
Stirring Spoon: To stir the sauce ingredients while they simmer.
Serving Bowl: To hold the cooked linguine before topping it with the red clam sauce mixture.
Grater: To freshly grate the Parmesan cheese.
Can Opener: To open the can of diced tomatoes and the can of minced clams.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To accurately measure the white wine, dried basil, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese for the recipe.
Colander: To drain the cooked linguine pasta after it has boiled.
what goes with it?
Lemon Zest: a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest over the pasta brightens up the dish and adds a zing of citrus that cuts through the richness of the sauce.
Crusty Bread: because let's be real, you're going to want to soak up every last drop of that delicious clam sauce. Crunchy, crusty bread is the perfect vessel for sopping up all that goodness.
Lemon Sorbet: finish off the meal with a palate-cleansing lemon sorbet. The citrusy flavors will refresh your taste buds after indulging in the savory linguine with red clam sauce.
Fresh Basil Salad: a simple salad of fresh basil leaves dressed with lemon juice and olive oil is the perfect palate cleanser between bites of pasta.
beverage pairings
Wine Pairings
Chardonnay: Why? Its buttery notes and richness will complement the brininess of the clams and the acidity of the red sauce. Look for one with a hint of oak for added depth.
Pinot Grigio: If you prefer a lighter white, a crisp Pinot Grigio can cut through the richness of the sauce while enhancing the flavors of the clams and basil. Choose one with fruity and floral notes for a refreshing pairing.
Sauvignon Blanc: For those who enjoy a more herbaceous white, a Sauvignon Blanc can bring out the herbal flavors in the dish while providing a zesty acidity to balance the red sauce. Look for one with citrus and green apple notes to brighten the dish.
Other Alcohol Pairings
Pale Ale: The hoppy bitterness of a pale ale can contrast the richness of the pasta and red sauce, while the maltiness can complement the sweetness of the tomatoes. It's a refreshing pairing that brings out the savory elements of the dish.
Gin and Tonic: The botanicals in gin can elevate the herbal notes in the dish, while the crispness of tonic water cuts through the acidity of the tomatoes.
Negroni: For a sophisticated pairing, a Negroni's bold flavors of gin, Campari, and vermouth can stand up to the richness of the red clam sauce. The bitter sweetness of the cocktail can enhance the savory elements of the dish.
Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Lemonade: A glass of fresh lemonade can provide a bright acidity that complements the tomatoes in the sauce and clams. The sweetness of the lemonade can balance the tanginess of the dish for a refreshing non-alcoholic option.
Iced Chai Latte: The warm spices in an iced chai latte can add a cozy element to the dish, enhancing the flavors of basil and garlic. The creaminess of the latte can also provide a comforting pairing with the pasta and red clam sauce.
Ginger Beer: A zesty ginger beer can add a spicy kick to the dish, complementing the flavors of the garlic and red pepper flakes.
nutrition data
Nutritional data has not been calculated yet.
Keeping a can of frozen orange juice concentrate in the freezer means you can make more than just orange juice. Try it in a variety of orange-flavored recipes.
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reviews & comments
September 13, 2020
Loved this recipe, and thought the ingredients were perfect for what I had, also trying to use garden vegetables as well. I added diced zucchini to the onions and garlic and diced fresh tomatoes. I also used homemade canned tomato sauce. Loved all the flavors and spices. Definitely give this one a try. Next time I will use fresh parmesan cheese to top it off!
October 16, 2007
This was WONDERFUL! I substituted defrosted whole clams for the canned minced clams. Very Good!