This homemade clam sauce recipe is perfect for creating the classic Italian dish. With its rich flavors and tender clams, this sauce will become a family favorite. Made with simple ingredients like fresh clams, garlic, white wine, and herbs, it's easy to prepare and bursting with deliciousness. Serve it over pasta for a fantastic weeknight meal or a special occasion dinner. Enjoy the taste of Italy in your own kitchen with this authentic clam sauce recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh clams
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 cup clam juice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound linguine pasta
Directions
- Rinse the fresh clams under cold water to remove any dirt or sand. Discard any clams that are open or cracked.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the white wine to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2 minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate.
- Add the clams, clam juice, and chicken broth to the skillet. Cover and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the clams have opened. Discard any clams that remain closed.
- While the clams are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Once the clams have opened, remove them from the skillet and set aside. Continue to cook the sauce over medium heat until it has reduced slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped parsley and basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the cooked linguine pasta and add it to the skillet with the clam sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Divide the pasta and sauce among serving plates. Top each plate with the cooked clams.
- Garnish with additional fresh parsley and basil, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Clam sauce is a traditional Italian dish often served with pasta, especially linguine.
Fresh clams are the star ingredient in this dish, providing a delicate and briny flavor.
The addition of white wine and garlic adds depth and richness to the sauce.
Using both clam juice and chicken broth gives the sauce a well-rounded and complex taste.
Garnishing with fresh herbs enhances the flavors and adds a pop of color to the dish.