Linguini with Red Clam Sauce

Ingredients:

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)

• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes or 4-5 fresh tomatoes, peeled and crushed

• 1/2 cup dry white wine

• 1/2 cup clam juice or seafood broth

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 2 pounds fresh clams, scrubbed clean

For the Pasta:

• 1 pound linguine

• Salt for pasta water

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

Prepare the Sauce:

1. 1. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

   2. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

   3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. If using fresh tomatoes, ensure they are peeled and crushed before adding.

   4. Add the white wine and clam juice (or seafood broth) to the skillet, stirring to combine.

   5. Season with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil.

   6. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Cook the Clams:

1. 7. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the clams to the sauce. Cover the skillet and cook until the clams open, about 5-7 minutes. Discard any clams that do not open.

   8. Stir in the fresh parsley.

Cook the Pasta:

1. 9. While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

   10. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.

   11. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

1. 12. Add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the sauce and clams. Toss to combine, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

   13. Drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and toss again.

Serve:

1. 14. Divide the linguine and clams among serving plates, ensuring each plate gets a good amount of clams and sauce.

   15. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your Linguine and Clams with Fresh Red Sauce with a side of crusty bread and a glass of white wine!