THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Main Course
Risotto-Style Spaghetti with Clams
This creamy, comforting dish brings together tender spaghetti and briny clams in a rich, flavorful sauce that's perfect for a cozy night in. It’s an easy way to enjoy seafood with a twist on classic risotto textures.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Risotto-Style Spaghetti with Clams
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
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01
Step 1
Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a gentle boil, then turn the heat down to a simmer. Meanwhile, heat some oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in a dried chile pepper and some garlic, cooking just until you can smell their aroma—about 30 seconds—then fish them out and throw them away. Add the clams to the flavorful oil, pour in the wine, and cover the pan right away. Let everything simmer until the clams open up, which should take around 7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the clams to a bowl, cover them to keep warm, and toss any that didn’t open.
02
Step 2
Next, ladle about four scoops of the salted pasta water into the skillet along with the clam juices. Crank the heat up to high so it boils, then add the spaghetti. Keep things moving with a pasta fork to stop the noodles from sticking together. Cook the spaghetti gently, adding more of the reserved pasta water as needed to keep the noodles just barely covered. This slow simmer should take about 8 to 10 minutes, and you want the pasta tender but still with a bit of bite.
03
Step 3
Once the spaghetti is just right, stir the clams back into the skillet along with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest. Give everything a good toss so the clams mix nicely with the thickened sauce. Serve it up in bowls, scatter some chopped parsley on top, and don’t forget to have a little plate ready for the empty shells while you dig in!
Why you’ll love it
This dish combines the creamy texture of risotto with the comfort of pasta, creating a unique and satisfying meal. The fresh clams add a burst of ocean flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich, savory sauce. It’s a great way to enjoy seafood in a comforting, easy-to-make dish.
How to serve
Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon for brightness. A crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine make excellent accompaniments. Crusty bread is also perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Storage & leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the pasta and clams may change.
