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.
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
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
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese (optional), grated
Instructions
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.
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.
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.
Add the red pepper flakes and stir for an additional 30 seconds.
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.
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.
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped basil and lemon juice. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
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.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2948 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 97.2 g | 125% | |
| Saturated Fat | 30.6 g | 153% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 703 mg | 234% | |
| Sodium | 5130 mg | 223% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 173.8 g | 63% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.4 g | 44% | |
| Total Sugars | 5.0 g | ||
| Protein | 303.5 g | 607% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.2 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 2473 mg | 190% | |
| Iron | 270.6 mg | 1503% | |
| Potassium | 6643 mg | 141% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
