How to Prepare Spaghetti with Clams Red Sauce
Italian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and mouthwatering dishes, and one of the most beloved pasta dishes is spaghetti with clams red sauce. This classic dish combines the delicate taste of fresh clams with the robust flavors of a rich tomato sauce, creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, preparing spaghetti with clams red sauce is a delightful culinary experience. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to prepare this delectable dish, ensuring that your taste buds are treated to a true Italian feast.
Ingredients
Before diving into the preparation process, it’s essential to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for spaghetti with clams red sauce:
– 400g spaghetti
– 1kg fresh clams (preferably littleneck clams)
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28oz) whole peeled tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Preparation
1. Start by cleaning the clams. Rinse them under cold water and discard any open or cracked shells. Place the clams in a bowl with a layer of ice to keep them fresh while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
2. In a large pot, bring a generous amount of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn it.
4. Stir in the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, and dried basil. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Pour in the white wine and bring the sauce to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
6. Add the cleaned clams to the sauce. Cover the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the clams open. Discard any clams that do not open during this time, as they may be dead or contaminated.
7. Once the clams are cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce, ensuring that each strand is coated in the delicious red sauce.
8. Serve the spaghetti with clams red sauce immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy your homemade Italian masterpiece!
By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to prepare a delicious spaghetti with clams red sauce that will impress your family and friends. Buon appetito!
