Linguine with White Clam Sauce is a classic Italian-American dish that combines the delicate flavors of linguine pasta with a savory, briny clam sauce. Adapted from a recipe that prioritizes health without compromising on taste, this dish is perfect for those looking for a delicious, low-cholesterol option that can be prepared in under 60 minutes on the stovetop.
Recipe Overview
- Name: Linguine with White Clam Sauce
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Recipe Category: Low Cholesterol
- Keywords: Healthy, < 60 Mins, Stove Top, Easy
- Servings: 2
- Calories: 807.1
- Nutritional Information:
- Fat: 20.5g
- Saturated Fat: 6.3g
- Cholesterol: 52.3mg
- Sodium: 681.1mg
- Carbohydrates: 109.2g
- Fiber: 4.9g
- Sugar: 6.2g
- Protein: 39.3g
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine
- 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup clam juice (reserved from canned clams)
- 1 can (6.5 oz) baby clams, drained
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
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Cook Linguine: Start by cooking the linguine in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain, rinse with cold water to stop cooking, and set aside.
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Prepare Sauce: In a large, heavy frying pan, heat the olive oil over moderate heat for about a minute. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened but not browned.
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Create Base: Stir in the flour, cooking and stirring constantly for about a minute to form a roux.
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Add Wine: Pour in the dry white wine, stirring constantly, and cook for 2 minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate and the flavors to meld.
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Combine Liquids: Add the low sodium chicken broth and the reserved clam juice. Stir well and let it simmer for about 4 minutes, ensuring the sauce thickens slightly.
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Incorporate Clams and Cheese: Stir in the drained baby clams and grated Parmesan cheese, allowing them to heat through and melt into the sauce.
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Combine with Linguine: Add the cooked linguine to the pan, tossing well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional minute until the pasta is heated through and well combined with the sauce.
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Finish and Serve: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley right before serving to add a burst of fresh flavor. Serve the Linguine with White Clam Sauce immediately, accompanied by a loaf of crusty bread and a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips
- Pasta Perfection: Cook the linguine just until it’s al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic and onion.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh parsley and good quality Parmesan cheese for the best taste.
Nutritional Benefits
Linguine with White Clam Sauce is not only delicious but also relatively low in cholesterol and provides a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and essential fats. The dish incorporates healthy olive oil, lean protein from clams, and the nutritional benefits of garlic and onion. It’s a satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor while fitting into a balanced diet.
Conclusion
This recipe for Linguine with White Clam Sauce offers a delightful culinary experience with its easy preparation and rich flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, it’s a dish that showcases how simplicity and quality ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious. Enjoy the aroma and taste of the sea with every bite of this savory pasta dish, and savor the satisfaction of preparing a healthy, homemade meal that’s as delightful to cook as it is to eat.
