Spicy Garlic Butter Clam Pasta

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti (or any long pasta)
• 2 tbsp butter (unsalted preferred)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic (cloves, minced)
• 0.5 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 can canned spicy clams (approx. 5-6 oz; do not drain)
• 0.25 cup pasta water (reserved from boiling pasta)
• fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• lemon juice (a squeeze for finishing)

Steps

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

2. 2

   While the pasta cooks, heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

3. 3

   Add the minced garlic and chili flakes to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to turn golden, being careful not to burn it.

4. 4

   Pour in the entire can of spicy clams, including the liquid/oil from the can. Stir to combine with the garlic butter.

5. 5

   Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1/4 cup of the starchy pasta water.

6. 6

   Add the cooked spaghetti directly to the skillet with the clams.

7. 7

   Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss everything together over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until the sauce emulsifies and coats the pasta evenly.

8. 8

   Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

If you cannot find pre-seasoned 'spicy clams' in a can, use regular canned clams and increase the amount of chili flakes and garlic, or add a teaspoon of chili oil (like Lao Gan Ma) to the butter sauce.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• pasta
• seafood
• quick dinner
• 15 minute meal
• spicy
• garlic butter
• canned clams