Linguine with Clam Sauce – Authentic Italian Seafood Pasta
Linguine with Clam Sauce is a classic Italian seafood pasta that highlights the natural flavor of clams. Linguine pasta is tossed with a fragrant sauce made from garlic, olive oil, white wine, and tender clams. The sauce is light but rich in flavor, enhanced by fresh parsley and a splash of pasta water. This dish is quick to prepare and perfect for seafood lovers. Whether made with fresh or canned clams, it delivers a delicious taste of coastal Italy. Simple, elegant, and satisfying, it is a timeless pasta recipe enjoyed around the world.
Ingredients
- 300 g linguine pasta
- 500 g fresh clams (or 2 cans chopped clams with juice)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- ½ cup dry white wine
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve about ½ cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add chili flakes and cook briefly to release their flavor.
- Pour in the white wine and simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the clams and clam juice, then cover and cook until the clams open (about 5 minutes). Discard any unopened clams.
- Add the cooked linguine to the skillet.
- Toss the pasta with the clam sauce, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed.
- Stir in fresh parsley and lemon juice. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Fresh clams provide the best flavor, but canned clams are convenient.
- Discard clams that do not open during cooking.
- Use dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
- Pasta water helps bind the sauce.
- Lemon juice adds brightness and freshness.
- Avoid adding too much salt because clams are naturally salty.
- Fresh parsley enhances aroma and flavor.
- Serve immediately for the best taste.