Linguine with Clams, Parsley and Lemon

Linguine with Clams, Parsley and Lemon Recipe - Italian Cuisine

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Linguine with Clams, Parsley and Lemon is a classic Italian dish that combines the briny flavor of clams with the freshness of parsley and the zing of lemon. This dish is perfect for a light and flavorful meal that is sure to impress your guests.

History

This recipe has its roots in Italian cuisine, where seafood is a staple in many dishes. Linguine with clams has been a popular dish in coastal regions of Italy for centuries, where fresh seafood is abundant. The combination of linguine, clams, parsley, and lemon creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both comforting and elegant.

Ingredients

12 oz (340 g) of linguine
0.5 cup of dry white wine or chicken broth
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 tbsp of minced garlic
2 cans (6.5 oz or 184 g each) of chopped clams, drained, juice reserved
1 cup of chicken broth
0.75 cup of chopped parsley
2 tsp of lemon zest
juice from 1 medium lemon
0.5 tsp of salt
0.13 tsp of ground black pepper

How to prepare

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
In a saucepan, combine the wine, onion, and garlic. Bring it to a simmer.
Cover the saucepan and cook for 5 minutes or until the onion is soft.
Add the clam juice and broth to the saucepan.
Bring it to a simmer and cook uncovered for 5 minutes.
Stir in the clams and heat through.
Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
Add the clam sauce and remaining ingredients. Toss to mix everything well.
Pour the mixture into a warmed pasta bowl.
Garnish with parsley sprigs.

Variations

Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Use white wine instead of chicken broth for a different flavor profile.
Add cherry tomatoes for a burst of freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to ensure that it retains its texture and doesn't become mushy.

- Use fresh clams if possible for the best flavor, but canned clams can also be used in a pinch.

- Don't overcook the clams, as they can become tough and rubbery.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon zest as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Linguine with Clams, Parsley and Lemon with a side of crusty bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water for the best flavor.

- Simmer the clam sauce gently to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Toss the pasta with the sauce just before serving to ensure that it is well coated.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use spaghetti or fettuccine instead of linguine.

- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

- Use parsley or basil instead of parsley for a different herb flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the clam sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it gently before tossing with the cooked pasta.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Linguine with Clams, Parsley and Lemon with additional lemon zest and parsley for a pop of color. Serve it in a large pasta bowl for a rustic presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Linguine with Clams, Parsley and Lemon with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc for a perfect match.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Linguine with Clams, Parsley and Lemon contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Linguine with Clams, Parsley and Lemon contains approximately 60 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Linguine with Clams, Parsley and Lemon contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Linguine with Clams, Parsley and Lemon contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamin C from the lemon zest and parsley, as well as iron and omega-3 fatty acids from the clams.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (clams) and gluten (from the pasta), so it may not be suitable for those with shellfish or gluten allergies.

Summary

Linguine with Clams, Parsley and Lemon is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Linguine with Clams, Parsley and Lemon is a delicious and elegant dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner. With its fresh flavors and simple preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Linguine with Clams, Parsley and Lemon. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl learning the art of cooking from my own grandmother. She was a wonderful cook, always experimenting with new flavors and ingredients, and this recipe was one of her favorites.

The recipe had been passed down to her from her own mother, who had learned it from a friend who had traveled to Italy. It was a simple yet elegant dish, perfect for a special occasion or just a cozy family dinner. The combination of fresh clams, fragrant parsley, and zesty lemon was a revelation to me, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

My grandmother patiently guided me through the steps, showing me how to clean and prepare the clams, how to cook the linguine to al dente perfection, and how to create the flavorful sauce that would bring everything together. She stressed the importance of using the freshest ingredients possible, and taught me how to balance the flavors so that each one shone through in every bite.

As I watched her work, I marveled at her skill and expertise in the kitchen. She moved with a grace and confidence that I could only hope to one day possess myself. And as she shared stories of her own culinary adventures and the people she had met along the way, I realized that this recipe was more than just a delicious meal – it was a connection to a world of flavors and traditions that spanned generations.

I practiced making the dish over and over again, each time striving to capture the magic that my grandmother seemed to effortlessly evoke. And as I grew older and my own family began to gather around the table, I found that this recipe became a staple in our home, a dish that brought us together and created lasting memories.

Years passed, and my grandmother’s health began to decline. She could no longer stand at the stove for hours on end, stirring pots and tasting sauces. But she never lost her love for cooking, and she continued to share her wisdom and recipes with me, passing down the traditions that had been so dear to her heart.

One day, as I stood in my own kitchen, preparing Linguine with Clams, Parsley and Lemon for my family, I felt a pang of sadness knowing that my grandmother was no longer there to guide me. But as I squeezed fresh lemon juice over the steaming pasta and breathed in the aroma of the sea, I felt her presence with me, a comforting presence that reminded me of the love and passion she had poured into every dish she made.

And as my family gathered around the table, eagerly digging into the dish that had become a beloved favorite, I knew that my grandmother’s legacy would live on in every bite. For this recipe was more than just a meal – it was a connection to the past, a celebration of tradition, and a testament to the enduring power of love and family. And for that, I will always be grateful.