Pasta with Clam Sauce

Name: Pasta with Clam Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or linguine; 1 lb fresh littleneck clams, cleaned; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Zest of 1 lemon

Published: November 6, 2025

by Sarah Conley

Why You'll Love This Pasta with Clam Sauce

This incredible Pasta with Clam Sauce transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Pasta with Clam Sauce:

Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine works best for holding onto that yummy sauce.
Fresh Clams: Choose small clams like littlenecks for sweetness; they also look pretty on the plate.
Garlic: Fresh garlic packs a punch; the more, the merrier!
Olive Oil: Good quality olive oil adds depth and richness to the dish.
White Wine: A splash of dry white wine elevates the sauce; drink what you don’t use!
Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens up both color and flavor—like springtime in your bowl.
Lemon Zest: A hint of lemon zest adds a refreshing zing that balances everything out.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Pasta with Clam Sauce:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by cleaning those clams! Rinse them under cold water and scrub off any grit. Next, chop your garlic and parsley because we need them ready to go when inspiration strikes.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve half a cup of pasta water before draining it to help thicken the sauce later.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant but not browned—about one minute should do it.

Step 4: Add Clams and Wine

Pour in your cleaned clams and white wine. Cover the skillet with a lid and steam them until they open up—this usually takes about five to seven minutes. Discard any that don’t open (they were probably bad company).

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add cooked pasta directly into the skillet along with reserved pasta water as needed. Toss everything together gently so each strand gets coated in that luscious clam sauce.

Step 6: Finish with Freshness

Stir in chopped parsley and lemon zest right before serving for an extra pop of flavor. Transfer to plates, sprinkle with more parsley if you’re feeling fancy, and enjoy!

This Pasta with Clam Sauce will have everyone at your table swooning! So grab some forks (and maybe some extra napkins), because once you dig in, there’s no stopping at just one plate!

You Must Know About Pasta with Clam Sauce

This showstopping Pasta with Clam Sauce delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by cleaning the clams thoroughly to avoid sandy surprises. Sauté garlic in olive oil, then add the clams and white wine. While they steam open, cook the pasta separately until al dente for optimal texture. Combine everything just before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to jazz up your Pasta with Clam Sauce! Swap out traditional linguine for spaghetti or even zoodles for a lighter option. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick or toss in some spinach for added nutrition and color.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Pasta with Clam Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to retain moisture and prevent dryness. Gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Pasta with Clam Sauce

This professional-quality Pasta with Clam Sauce relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sometimes, my friends ask me how I manage to make this dish so consistently delicious. I remember one dinner where everyone went back for thirds—talk about a compliment! It’s moments like these that make cooking so rewarding.

FAQs

What is Pasta with Clam Sauce?

Pasta with Clam Sauce is a delightful Italian dish that combines pasta, usually linguine or spaghetti, with a flavorful clam sauce. The sauce is made from fresh clams, garlic, olive oil, white wine, and herbs, creating a savory experience that highlights the natural taste of the clams. This dish is perfect for seafood lovers and can be prepared quickly, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

How do you make Pasta with Clam Sauce?

To make Pasta with Clam Sauce, start by cooking your choice of pasta according to package instructions. In a separate pan, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add fresh clams and white wine, then cover until the clams open. Toss the cooked pasta into the clam mixture, adding parsley and red pepper flakes for flavor. Serve immediately for a delicious meal that brings the taste of Italy to your kitchen.

Can I use canned clams for Pasta with Clam Sauce?

Yes, using canned clams for Pasta with Clam Sauce is an excellent option if fresh clams are unavailable. Drain the canned clams and add them to your sauce towards the end of cooking to prevent overcooking. While fresh clams offer a more authentic flavor, canned versions still deliver great taste and convenience. Just remember to adjust seasoning as needed since canned clams are often pre-seasoned.

What can I serve with Pasta with Clam Sauce?

Pasta with Clam Sauce pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider serving it alongside a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread is another popular choice that complements the rich flavors of the dish beautifully. You may also enjoy roasted vegetables or steamed asparagus to enhance your meal’s nutritional value while adding vibrant colors to your plate.

Conclusion

In summary, Pasta with Clam Sauce is a quick and flavorful dish that showcases the wonderful taste of clams combined with pasta. By preparing this dish at home, you can impress family and friends alike while enjoying an authentic Italian meal. Whether you opt for fresh or canned clams, this recipe offers flexibility without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy your culinary journey as you savor each bite of this classic seafood pasta!

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📖 Recipe Card