White Clam Sauce with Pasta and Asparagus

Italian White Clam Sauce with Pasta and Asparagus Recipe

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

Introduction

White Clam Sauce with Pasta and Asparagus is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the briny taste of clams with the freshness of asparagus. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

History

This recipe is a classic Italian dish that has been enjoyed for generations. The combination of clams, pasta, and asparagus creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) rigatoni
1 bunch asparagus, ends snapped off and cut into 1 inch pieces
0.25 cup olive oil
6 cloves garlic, finely chopped
3 cans (6.5 oz (184 g) each) clams, drained and 0.5 cup clam juice reserved
2 tbsp lemon juice
4 jarred hot cherry peppers, seeded and thinly sliced
0.25 tsp salt
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 cup italian parsley, chopped

How to prepare

Bring a pot of water with salt to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to the package directions.
Add the asparagus to the boiling water and cook for the last 4 minutes.
Drain the pasta and asparagus.
Heat oil in a skillet.
Add garlic and cook until it starts to turn golden, while stirring.
Pour in the clam juice and cook for 1 minute.
Stir in the clams, lemon juice, peppers, and salt.
Cook until everything is heated through.
Add butter and parsley, and stir well.
Combine the pasta, asparagus, and sauce.
Drizzle with additional olive oil and serve immediately.

Variations

Add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Substitute the asparagus with broccoli or spinach for a different twist.
Use linguine or spaghetti instead of rigatoni for a different pasta shape.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to ensure that it doesn't become mushy when combined with the sauce.

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

- Don't overcook the asparagus, as it should be tender-crisp to add a nice texture to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the White Clam Sauce with Pasta and Asparagus with a side salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the garlic until it is fragrant but not burnt to avoid a bitter taste in the sauce.

- Use a large skillet to ensure that the pasta and sauce can be easily combined.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of clam juice for a vegetarian version of this dish.

- Substitute the hot cherry peppers with red bell peppers for a milder flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat it before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve this dish with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

450

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 65g

- Dietary Fiber: 5g

- Sugars: 3g

Fats

- Total Fat: 15g

- Saturated Fat: 4g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 18g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 20% DV

- Vitamin C: 30% DV

- Calcium: 8% DV

- Iron: 15% DV

Alergens

Contains shellfish (clams)

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in calories and can be a healthy addition to your diet.

Summary

White Clam Sauce with Pasta and Asparagus is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a few simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy this flavorful meal in no time.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a warm summer day, and my dear friend Maria had invited me over for lunch. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the most heavenly aroma of garlic and butter wafting through the air. Maria was busy at the stove, stirring a pot of bubbling white clam sauce, with plump clams peeking out from their shells.

"Come, come, sit down," Maria beckoned me over to the table. "I've been dying to share this recipe with you. It's a family secret passed down through generations."

I eagerly took a seat and watched as Maria expertly cooked the pasta and asparagus to perfection. The sauce simmered on the stove, filling the room with its mouthwatering scent. Finally, it was time to plate up our meal. Maria carefully ladled the white clam sauce over the pasta and asparagus, sprinkling it with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.

As we sat down to eat, I took my first bite of the dish. The flavors exploded in my mouth – the briny clams, the rich buttery sauce, the tender asparagus. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish myself.

Over the next few months, I visited Maria often, watching and learning as she made her white clam sauce with pasta and asparagus. She shared her tips and tricks with me, teaching me the importance of using fresh ingredients and letting the flavors meld together slowly. I took notes, asked questions, and practiced in my own kitchen until I felt confident in my ability to recreate Maria's masterpiece.

As time went on, I started to put my own twist on the recipe, adding a touch of white wine for a bit of acidity, or experimenting with different types of pasta. Each time I made the dish, it brought back memories of that first lunch with Maria, and I felt grateful for her generosity in sharing her family recipe with me.

Now, whenever I make my white clam sauce with pasta and asparagus, I think of Maria and the bond we share over our love of cooking. I know that this recipe will continue to be a staple in my kitchen for years to come, passed down to future generations of my family. And as I sit down to enjoy a bowl of this delicious dish, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to keep traditions alive.