Spaghetti with White Clam Sauce with Garlic Bread

Instructions

1. 1

   Cook the Spaghetti

   • Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt.
   • Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
   • Before draining, use a mug to reserve at least 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Then, drain the pasta.
2. 2

   Prepare the Clams and Sauce Base

   • While the pasta cooks, open the cans of clams over a bowl to catch all the juice. Set the drained clams aside.
   • In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, warm the extra virgin olive oil.
   • Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to turn golden. Do not let it brown or it will become bitter.
3. 3

   Build the Sauce

   • Carefully pour the white wine into the skillet to deglaze. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
   • Increase the heat slightly and let the wine simmer and reduce by about half, which should take 2-3 minutes.
   • Pour the reserved clam juice into the skillet. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 4-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. 4

   Combine and Emulsify

   • Add the drained spaghetti directly to the skillet with the sauce. Add the reserved chopped clams, chopped parsley, and pieces of butter.
   • Using tongs, toss the pasta vigorously for about 1-2 minutes. This action, combined with the butter and starchy pasta water, will emulsify the sauce, making it silky and helping it cling to the pasta.
   • If the sauce looks too dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. 5

   Season and Serve

   • Remove the skillet from the heat. Taste the pasta and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Be cautious with salt, as clam juice is already briny.
   • Divide the pasta among four bowls. Garnish with extra fresh parsley and a drizzle of good olive oil, if desired. Serve immediately.