Last week, I made my sister’s famous clam pasta on Instagram Stories, and so many people messaged, asking for the recipe. I’ve never cooked with canned clams before (I’ve never even bought them), but when my sister visited last year, she made this; and we all went nuts. It’s so easy and quick to make and doesn’t require a whole lot of ingredients, but it makes a grand impression (perfect meal for company!). Last night, I made it for dinner in Florida, my sister made it for dinner in Michigan; and we chatted over wine on the phone while we cooked. With no further ado…
Carin’s Clam Pasta
1 Tbs butter
1 Tbs olive oil
1/4 C flat leaf parsley, chopped
1/4 C sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 can chopped or minced clams
1/2 C dry vermouth (or white wine)
2 Tbs fresh lemon juice
1/2 C half and half
3/4 C milk
1/2 lb linguine or pasta of choice
Salt & pepper to taste. Boil water and prepare pasta. While pasta is cooking, melt butter and olive oil in frying pan (I used a 12 inch, non-stick). Add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes and stir until garlic is cooked.
Add clams. I do not drain or rinse as I like the added flavor of the clam juice. If you’re worried about sand (some brands are better than others at removing it), you can drain and rinse — and, if you wish, add the equivalent amount of clam juice (purchased separately). Add parsley, dry vermouth, and lemon juice.
Reduce heat to low and stir a few minutes until cooked down a bit. Add half & half and milk and continue to stir a bit (careful not to burn). Serve over pasta or mix in and stir.
I usually don’t measure when I make this — so tweak ingredients as you see fit. If you want it lower in fat, omit the cream/half & half and add flour to thicken. If you want it a little tangier, add more lemon. Other ideas for add-ins might include prosciutto, bacon, pine nuts. This serves about four modest portions — so you might want to double!
We made ours last night with bowtie pasta, and I put a lot of sun dried tomatoes in ours. My kids loved it! We couldn’t believe Nella liked it because she is so picky about her pasta only having marinara on it. But she asked for a second helping last night!
Sarah says
My mom used to make a version of this and I have been meaning to dig up a recipe. This sounds so good! I love when you post recipes, still thinking about Heidi’s shirmp and grits!
Amy says
My teenage daughter is pescatarian so this is a welcome recipe! I’ve never bought canned clams before. Do you recommend a certain brand?
Kelle says
I bought Bar Harbor, and they were really good quality. A little pricier, but worth it!
Nicole says
This looks so good! Clams are going on my shopping list! lol Thanks for sharing!
Val Smith says
Trying this tonight!