Are you craving a taste of Italy? Look no further! This authentic Italian red clam sauce recipe is a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious way to transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean. Forget those bland jarred sauces; this homemade version is bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors that will leave you wanting more. It’s the perfect healthy meal, a quick dinner idea, and a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can easily create at home. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet sophisticated recipe!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 2 pounds fresh littleneck clams, scrubbed and rinsed
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Cooked pasta of your choice (linguine or spaghetti recommended)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: A Simple Guide
This recipe is incredibly straightforward, even for beginner cooks.
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Build the sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and white wine (if using) to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Add the clams: Add the scrubbed clams to the sauce. Cover the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the clams open. Discard any clams that do not open.
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Stir in the parsley: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve: Serve the red clam sauce immediately over your favorite cooked pasta. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results: Enhance Your Culinary Skills
- Choose fresh clams: Using fresh, high-quality clams is key to a delicious sauce. Make sure to scrub them thoroughly before cooking.
- Don't overcook the clams: Overcooked clams will be tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they open.
- Adjust the spice: If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Add some herbs: Experiment with other herbs like oregano or basil for a unique twist.
Variations: Explore Different Flavor Profiles
- Spicy clam sauce: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Creamy clam sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer sauce.
- Lemon clam sauce: Add the juice of half a lemon to the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for a bright, zesty flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approximate):
This information is based on a serving size of approximately 1.5 cups of pasta with sauce and may vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 50-60g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This authentic Italian red clam sauce is a simple, delicious, and relatively healthy meal option that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this taste of Italy from the comfort of your own kitchen! It’s a great addition to your collection of easy recipes and homemade cooking endeavors. This simple dish is a perfect example of how easy it can be to create truly delicious dishes. Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!