Linguine with Clams: A Gourmet Recipe for a Quick Dinner
Linguine with clams is a delightful dish that showcases the incredible flavours of clams combined with a luscious white wine sauce.
This linguine with clams recipe is perfect for those evenings when you crave a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
With canned clams as the star ingredient, you can whip up a satisfying dinner in under 30 minutes!
An Introduction to Linguine with Clams
If you’re looking to elevate your dinner routine, this linguine with clams recipe is a fantastic choice. The white wine reduction sauce, infused with garlic, butter, and pancetta, brings a gourmet flair to a simple dish.
With just a handful of ingredients, including shallots, clam juice, and Parmesan cheese, you can create a delicious meal that impresses family and friends alike.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is not only easy but also brings out the natural flavours of the clams. The addition of pancetta provides a savoury depth that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the clams.
By deglazing the skillet with white wine, you create a rich sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. The result is a comforting, flavour-packed dish that you can enjoy any night of the week.
How to Prepare Linguine with Clams
Ingredients Needed
To create this delectable linguine with clams, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 (6.5 oz.) cans of chopped clams, juices reserved
- ½ lb. linguine
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 oz. pancetta, diced
- 1 cup dry white wine (Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay)
- 1 medium shallot, finely diced
- 6 tablespoons salted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- ½ cup pasta water (reserved)
Seasonings:
- ¾ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
For Serving:
- High-quality lemon pepper seasoning
- Freshly chopped parsley
- Lemon slices
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Clams
Start by separating the clams from their juices. Reserve 1 cup of clam juice for the recipe and set it aside. Make sure to measure out the remaining ingredients beforehand.
2. Cook the Linguine
Begin boiling water for the linguine. Once boiling, salt the water liberally to enhance the pasta’s flavour. Cook the linguine for 1 minute less than al dente, as it will continue to cook when combined with the sauce.
3. Sauté the Pancetta
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the diced pancetta and sauté until it is browned and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the pancetta to a plate and reserve any drippings in the skillet.
4. Deglaze the Skillet
Turn off the heat and add the white wine to the skillet, scraping the bottom to release any browned bits.
This step is essential for building flavour. Return the heat to medium and add the finely diced shallots. Allow the wine to bubble and reduce by half, which should take about 6-7 minutes.
5. Create the Sauce
Next, add the reserved clam juice, minced garlic, butter, and seasonings to the skillet. Stir everything to combine and simmer over low heat. This will allow the flavours to meld beautifully.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once the linguine is cooked, reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring continuously to help it melt. Return the cooked pancetta to the skillet, then add the clams, and mix well.
7. Final Touches
Add the drained linguine to the skillet along with the lemon juice. Toss everything together using kitchen tongs. If desired, add a splash of reserved pasta water for a creamier sauce.
Season with freshly cracked lemon pepper or salt to taste. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Pro Tips for Perfect Linguine with Clams
- Pancetta: Using pancetta adds a wonderful depth of flavour. If you don’t have pancetta, prosciutto, bacon, or ham can be excellent substitutes.
- White Wine: The choice of wine is crucial. Opt for Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay for the best results. If you prefer not to cook with wine, chicken broth is a viable alternative.
- Clams: For the best flavour, I recommend using Bar Harbor Chopped Clams. Add them towards the end of the cooking process to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
- Fresh Clams: If you prefer using fresh clams, 1 heaping cup of chopped fresh clams can be substituted, along with 1 cup of clam juice. Ensure the clams are cleaned and steamed before chopping.
- Butter and Cheese: Always use high-quality salted butter for richness. Grating cheese from a block enhances the flavour compared to pre-packaged grated cheese.
- Seasoning: Choose a good lemon pepper seasoning, such as Redmond Real Salt, for optimal flavour. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially if you prefer a milder or stronger flavour profile.
- Vegetable Additions: For an extra nutritional boost, consider adding spinach or diced tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking.
Storage Tips
Leftover linguine with clams can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to prevent the pasta from drying out.
Nutritional Information
This recipe serves four people and provides an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 623
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Cholesterol: 83mg
- Sodium: 954mg
- Potassium: 284mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Vitamin A: 731 IU
- Vitamin C: 4mg
- Calcium: 204mg
- Iron: 1mg
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of clams are best for this recipe?
For this recipe, canned clams, particularly Bar Harbor Chopped Clams, work wonderfully. If you prefer fresh clams, ensure they are cleaned and steamed beforehand.
Can I substitute the white wine?
Yes, if you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth is an excellent substitute that still adds depth to the sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of water if needed.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the pancetta and use vegetable broth instead of white wine. You can also add more vegetables for added flavour and nutrition.
What can I serve with linguine with clams?
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a side of steamed vegetables.
Final Thoughts
Linguine with clams is an outstanding dish that impresses with its rich flavours and simplicity.
This recipe transforms a few basic ingredients into a gourmet experience, making it ideal for any weeknight meal or special occasion. Enjoy creating this delightful dish and share it with loved ones!
For more culinary inspiration, check out my collection of pasta recipes and seafood dishes.
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