Linguine with Frozen Clams Recipe: Quick and Easy Meal

If you're a fan of seafood dishes, you'll love this linguine with frozen clams recipe. It's a delicious Italian recipe that makes for a perfect main course. Linguine with clams is a classic Italian pasta dish that is easy to make and affordable. This recipe uses frozen clams, which is a great option if you don't have access to fresh clams.

Preparing the ingredients for this dish is simple. You'll need linguine, frozen clams, garlic, white wine, olive oil, and parsley. The frozen clams can be found at your local grocery store, making it easy to get everything you need for this recipe. Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to start cooking.

Cooking the dish is a breeze. You'll start by cooking the linguine according to the package instructions. In a separate pan, you'll cook the garlic in olive oil until it's fragrant. Then, you'll add the frozen clams and white wine to the pan and cook until the clams are heated through. Once the linguine is cooked, you'll add it to the pan with the clams and toss everything together. Finally, you'll sprinkle some parsley on top for added flavour.

Key Takeaways

• Linguine with frozen clams is an easy and affordable Italian recipe.
• You can find frozen clams at your local grocery store.
• Cooking the dish involves cooking the linguine, cooking the garlic and clams, and combining everything together.

Preparing the Ingredients

Cleaning and Preparing Clams

Before you start cooking, you need to clean and prepare your fresh clams. Make sure you buy fresh clams from a reputable source. If you are using frozen clams, thaw them in the fridge overnight.

To clean the clams, rinse them under cold water and scrub the shells with a brush to remove any dirt or sand. Discard any clams that are open or cracked. To remove any sand or grit inside the clams, soak them in a bowl of cold water for about 20 minutes before cooking.

Measuring Spices and Herbs

To make sure your linguine with frozen clams recipe is packed with flavour, you need to measure your spices and herbs correctly. You will need garlic, parsley, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, olive oil, extra virgin olive oil, and Italian parsley.

Mince two garlic cloves and chop a handful of fresh parsley. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

For the olive oil, use a good quality extra virgin olive oil. You will need about two tablespoons of olive oil for cooking the garlic and clams. Reserve some extra virgin olive oil to drizzle over the finished dish for added flavour.

Cooking the Dish

Cooking Pasta to Al Dente

First, you need to cook the linguine pasta to al dente. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the linguine, and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until it's tender but still firm to the bite. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the linguine.

Making the Clam Sauce

While the pasta is cooking, you can start making the clam sauce. In a large skillet, melt some unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Then, pour in some dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, and let it simmer for a few minutes until it's reduced by half.

Next, add the frozen clams to the skillet and cook them until they are fully thawed and heated through. If you're using fresh clams, you can add them to the skillet and cover it with a lid until they open up. Discard any clams that do not open.

Combining Ingredients and Final Touches

Once the clams are cooked, add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss it with the clam sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add some reserved pasta water to thin it out. Finally, add some lemon juice and lemon zest to brighten up the flavors.

Serve the linguine with clams hot, garnished with some chopped parsley and a sprinkle of sea salt. Enjoy your delicious seafood pasta dish!

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best way to thaw frozen clams for a linguine dish?

The best way to thaw frozen clams is to place them in the fridge overnight. If you're in a hurry, you can also place them in a bowl of cold water for a few hours. Avoid thawing them in warm water or at room temperature, as this can cause bacterial growth.

How can I make a creamy clam sauce for my linguine?

To make a creamy clam sauce, you can add a bit of heavy cream or half-and-half to your white wine and garlic base. Whisk in a tablespoon of flour to thicken the sauce, then add your clams and linguine. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper to taste.

Is it possible to substitute canned clams for fresh ones in a pasta recipe?

Yes, you can substitute canned clams for fresh ones in a pasta recipe. Canned clams are a convenient and affordable option, and they work well in dishes like linguine with clam sauce. Just be sure to drain them well before using.

What are the secrets to an authentic Italian white clam sauce?

The secrets to an authentic Italian white clam sauce are simple ingredients and careful preparation. Use fresh clams, garlic, white wine, olive oil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Be sure to cook the clams just until they open, then toss with your linguine and sauce. Finish with a sprinkle of parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.

How should I properly reheat leftover linguine with clam sauce?

To reheat leftover linguine with clam sauce, place it in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a pan on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

For how long can I safely store cooked linguine with clams in the refrigerator?

You can safely store cooked linguine with clams in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container and reheat it thoroughly before serving. If it smells off or has a strange texture, it's best to discard it.