Craving a dish that brings the taste of the ocean right to your table? This garlic butter seafood pasta features tender clams, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, flavorful sauce that’s sure to impress. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to a cozy coastal restaurant with every bite.
Imagine the aroma of garlic sizzling in butter as you toss in fresh clams, melding with a splash of white wine. This dish is all about simplicity, highlighting the briny sweetness of the clams and the comforting embrace of pasta. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a gathering with friends, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both elegant and comforting.
Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to impress at your next dinner party, this recipe delivers on flavor and ease. Plus, the bright garnish of parsley adds a fresh finish that elevates the entire dish.
Experience the Essence of the Ocean
This garlic butter seafood pasta captures the essence of coastal dining with a delicious blend of flavors that evoke the sea. The tender clams are the stars of this dish, bringing a briny sweetness that pairs beautifully with the rich garlic butter sauce.
As you prepare this meal, the aroma of garlic and butter fills the kitchen, instantly drawing attention. The rich, savory sauce coats the perfectly cooked spaghetti, creating a comforting dish that feels both luxurious and inviting.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
The key components of this dish are simple yet impactful. Using fresh clams ensures a burst of flavor with every bite, while the addition of white wine adds a delightful acidity that balances the richness of the garlic butter.
Fresh parsley not only enhances the presentation but also contributes a hint of brightness that complements the savory elements beautifully. The combination of olive oil and butter creates a luscious sauce that clings to the pasta, making each mouthful a satisfying experience.
Cooking Techniques for Success
Cooking this seafood pasta involves a few straightforward techniques that ensure a fantastic result. Boiling the spaghetti until it reaches al dente is crucial, as this texture holds up well against the rich sauce.
Sautéing the garlic in olive oil releases its aromatic qualities, setting the stage for the clams and white wine. Covering the skillet allows the clams to steam, opening up and releasing their natural juices into the sauce, enriching the overall flavor of the dish.
Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Meal
Presentation plays a vital role in making this dish feel special. Arrange the pasta on a plate, making sure to showcase the clams nestled throughout. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing.
Don’t forget the lemon wedges! A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the pasta enhances the flavors and adds a refreshing brightness. Pairing this dish with a chilled glass of white wine elevates the dining experience, making it perfect for any occasion.
A Dish for Any Occasion
This garlic butter seafood pasta is versatile enough for a cozy dinner at home or an elegant gathering with friends. Its simplicity and rich flavors appeal to seafood lovers and those new to the culinary delights of the ocean.
With a total preparation and cook time of just 25 minutes, it’s an accessible yet impressive option for anyone looking to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss.
Nutritional Benefits
Not only is this dish delicious, but it also offers nutritional benefits. With a balanced profile of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, it can be enjoyed as part of a well-rounded diet.
The inclusion of clams provides essential vitamins and minerals, making this seafood pasta not only a treat for the taste buds but also beneficial for your health.
Delightful Garlic Butter Seafood Pasta with Clams
This seafood pasta is a delightful combination of al dente spaghetti, succulent clams, and a luscious garlic butter sauce. The dish is savory, slightly tangy from white wine, and finished with fresh parsley, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that is both satisfying and refreshing.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup white wine
- 1 lb fresh clams scrubbed
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
- Add Wine and Clams: Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer. Add the clams, cover the skillet, and cook until the clams open (about 5-7 minutes). Discard any clams that do not open.
- Combine: Reduce heat, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, and toss gently to combine. Stir in butter and chopped parsley, season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and clams, garnishing with additional parsley and lemon wedges. Enjoy!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 2 servings
- Calories: 480kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
