Clams With Angel Hair
Clams with Angel Hair is a light and flavorful seafood pasta dish that combines the delicate taste of clams with the silky texture of angel hair pasta.
Sautéed with pancetta, garlic, and onion, the dish is elevated by the subtle tang of dry white wine and clam juice, all while adding a hint of zest from fresh lemon.
The combination of savory pancetta, tender clams, and aromatic herbs like parsley makes this recipe a delicious and easy-to-make seafood favorite that’s perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
People will love this Clams with Angel Hair recipe because it’s the perfect balance of fresh, vibrant flavors.
The tender clams, savory pancetta, and the smooth angel hair pasta come together beautifully in a light, yet satisfying dish.
The wine and clam juice create a flavorful broth that coats the pasta, while the lemon zest adds a refreshing touch.
It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests.
With its combination of rich seafood, fresh herbs, and zesty notes, this dish is sure to impress!
Key Ingredients:
Diced pancetta for a savory, slightly salty depth of flavor.
Garlic and onion, finely chopped, for aromatic base notes.
Angel hair pasta, light and delicate, perfectly complementing the clams.
Clam juice and dry white wine, creating a flavorful broth.
Lemon zest, adding a refreshing, citrusy zing to the dish.
Red pepper flakes, optional, for a touch of heat.
Fresh parsley for a burst of color and herbal freshness.
Little neck clams, scrubbed and soaked, providing the fresh, briny seafood flavor.
Clams With Angel Hair
Ingredients:
2 ounces Diced pancetta
1 Medium clove garlic, finely chopped
1/4 Medium onion finely chopped
1 tablespoon Extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons Finely chopped parsley
1/4 pound Angel hair pasta
8 ounces Clam juice
1/4 cup Dry white wine
Zest of one lemon
1/4 teaspoon Red pepper flakes
3 Dozen little neck clams, scrubbed and soaked in clean cold water for 20 minutes
Instructions:
Heat a pan with olive oil, and add the onion, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Sauté for a few minutes until the garlic and onions soften and become translucent.
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the angel hair pasta according to package directions.
Turn the heat up on your pan and pour in the clam juice and dry white wine. Add the clams, cover the pan, and shake it every 30 seconds or so. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until most of the clams have opened up.
Drain the pasta once it’s cooked to al dente.
Once the clams have opened, remove the pan from the heat, discard any clams that haven’t opened, and add the drained pasta into the pan.
Toss in the pancetta, chopped parsley, and zest the lemon over the dish. Give it a final mix and serve it up in a lovely bowl.
Notes:
Pasta cooking tip: Be sure to cook the angel hair pasta just to al dente texture, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the clam broth.
Clams prep: Scrub the clams well and soak them in cold water for at least 20 minutes to help purge any sand or grit. Discard any clams that do not open during cooking.
Wine substitution: If you don’t have dry white wine, you can substitute with a splash of lemon juice or a mild white wine vinegar for acidity.
Pancetta: The pancetta adds a crispy, salty flavor, but you can substitute with bacon or prosciutto if pancetta is unavailable.
Serving suggestion: Serve this dish with a light salad and crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
Nutrition Information:
YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1
Calories: 380 | Protein: 25g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Carbohydrates: 42g | Dietary Fiber: 2g | Sugars: 2g | Cholesterol: 35mg | Sodium: 890mg | Potassium: 420mg
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I substitute pancetta with bacon in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pancetta with bacon if you prefer.
However, keep in mind that bacon has a smokier flavor compared to pancetta, which may slightly alter the taste of the dish.
What can I use as a substitute for clam juice if I don’t have any?
If you don’t have clam juice, you can use seafood stock or fish broth as a substitute.
Alternatively, you can use a combination of water and white wine or chicken broth for added flavor.
How do I know when the clams are cooked and ready to be served?
Clams are cooked when their shells have opened.
Discard any clams that remain closed after cooking, as they may be unsafe to eat.
It usually takes about 5 minutes for the clams to open after adding them to the pan.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the clams?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this dish by omitting the clams and increasing the amount of vegetables or using a vegetable-based broth.
You can also add tofu or mushrooms for additional texture and flavor.
What are some optional garnishes or toppings for serving this dish?
Optional garnishes or toppings for serving include chopped fresh parsley, a squeeze of lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh tomatoes, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
These toppings can enhance the flavor and presentation of the dish.
How can I tell if clams are fresh and safe to eat?
Fresh clams should have tightly closed shells or shells that close when tapped.
Avoid clams with broken or open shells, as they may be dead and unsafe to eat.
Is it necessary to soak clams in cold water before cooking?
Yes, soaking clams in clean cold water helps remove any sand or grit trapped inside the shells.
This step ensures that the clams are clean and enhances their flavor.
Can I use bottled clam juice instead of fresh clam juice?
Yes, you can use bottled clam juice as a substitute for fresh clam juice.
However, be sure to check the ingredient list and opt for a high-quality, reputable brand for the best flavor.
What type of white wine is best for cooking with clams?
Dry white wines such as Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay are commonly used in cooking with clams.
Choose a wine that you enjoy drinking, as the flavor will be imparted into the dish.
How long should I cook the clams?
Clams only need a few minutes to cook and open their shells. It usually takes about 5 minutes for clams to fully cook and open when simmered in liquid over high heat.
Can I make this dish ahead of time and reheat it later?
While Clams with Angel Hair is best enjoyed fresh, you can make the sauce ahead of time and reheat it gently before serving.
However, cook the pasta and add the clams just before serving to ensure they are cooked properly.
Are there any alternatives to angel hair pasta I can use?
Yes, you can use spaghetti or linguine as alternatives to angel hair pasta in this recipe.
Choose a pasta shape that you prefer or have available.
What can I serve as a side dish with Clams with Angel Hair?
Crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad make excellent side dishes to accompany Clams with Angel Hair.
These options complement the flavors of the dish and provide additional texture and freshness.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the clams and pancetta?
Yes, you can create a vegetarian version of this dish by omitting the clams and pancetta.
Instead, you can increase the amount of vegetables and add additional seasonings or vegetarian protein sources such as tofu or mushrooms.
Adjust the cooking time accordingly.