Clam Fettuccine
My darlings, this clam fettuccine recipe holds a special place in my heart as a perfect marriage of Italian pasta and fresh seafood flavors. The tender clams nestle into the strands of fettuccine, while the herb-infused butter sauce creates a luxurious coating that makes every bite memorable. It's the kind of dish that feels special enough for company but is simple enough for a weeknight dinner.
What makes this recipe truly shine is the beautiful balance of flavors - the briny sweetness of the clams, the aromatic herbs, and the rich butter sauce all come together in perfect harmony. The addition of celery leaves, an often overlooked ingredient, adds a subtle depth that elevates the entire dish. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, this pasta dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
¼ pound (1 stick) butter 3 tablespoons olive oil 3 cans clams, chopped 3 green onions, chopped 2 cloves garlic, chopped 3 tablespoons parsley, chopped (fresh is best) 3 tablespoons celery leaves, chopped ¼ teaspoon basil ¼ teaspoon oregano 4-oz can mushrooms, chopped Black pepper to taste 1 pound fettuccine Parmesan cheese for serving
Method
- 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil for the fettuccine.
- 2. In a heavy skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat.
- 3. Add chopped onions and garlic, cooking until softened but not browned.
- 4. Drain clams, reserving the juice. Add juice to skillet along with celery leaves, oregano, basil, and mushrooms.
- 5. Simmer sauce for 10 minutes to reduce slightly.
- 6. Meanwhile, cook fettuccine according to package directions until al dente.
- 7. Add clams to the sauce and simmer for 5 more minutes.
- 8. Drain pasta and return to pot. Pour clam sauce over pasta, toss well, and serve with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese.
Make it a Meal
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Granny's Green Garden Salad
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Clam Fettuccine: A Coastal Italian Classic
Pasta with clams, known in Italy as "pasta alle vongole," is a dish that originated in the coastal regions of Italy, where fresh seafood and pasta come together in perfect harmony. Our version, using convenient canned clams, makes this classic accessible to everyone while maintaining the dish's essential flavors and character.
The combination of clams and pasta dates back centuries in Italian cuisine, particularly in regions like Naples and Venice. The simplicity of the dish allows the natural sweetness of the clams to shine through, while the butter and herb sauce creates a luxurious coating for the pasta.
While traditional Italian versions might use fresh clams in their shells, our recipe using canned clams makes this dish both convenient and consistently delicious. The clam juice from the cans adds an authentic seafood flavor to the sauce, while the tender chopped clams ensure you get a taste of the sea in every bite.
Tips for Perfect Clam Fettuccine
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your clam fettuccine turns out perfectly every time:
- Reserve Some Pasta Water: Before draining the fettuccine, save a cup of the cooking water. You can use this to thin the sauce if needed.
- Don't Overcook: Add the clams last to prevent them from becoming tough. They only need to heat through.
- Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work well, fresh parsley and celery leaves add brightness and color.
- Wine Option: For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine to the sauce while it simmers.
- Cheese Choice: While some Italian purists avoid cheese with seafood, a light sprinkle of fresh Parmesan can add a lovely savory note.
- Garnish Ideas: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or fresh lemon zest can add an extra dimension of flavor.
The beauty of this clam fettuccine lies in its versatility and ease of preparation. It's equally suitable for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant dinner party. The combination of tender pasta, succulent clams, and aromatic herbs creates a dish that's both comforting and sophisticated.
So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a pasta dish that brings the flavors of the Italian coast right to your dinner table!