Seafood Spaghetti Delight

Indulge in this quick and easy Seafood Spaghetti Delight, combining tender clams, crispy bacon, and earthy mushrooms for a wholesome meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes.

Ingredients

• 300 g spaghetti
• 200 g clams
• 30 g bacon
• 100 g cabbage
• 300 g Shimeji mushrooms
• 10 g butter
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Instructions

1. Boil water in a large pan. Add spaghetti and cook for 7 minutes until al dente.
2. Add clams, bacon, Shimeji mushrooms, and cabbage to the pan, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until clams open and everything is cooked through.
3. Stir in the butter and soy sauce until well combined.

Nutritional Information

Approximately 450 calories per serving.

Recipe Overview

Difficulty Level: Easy

Equipment Needed: Large pot, frying pan, colander, wooden spoon

Kitchen Tips: Ensure the clams are fresh and discard any that are open before cooking.

Make-Ahead Options: You can pre-cook the spaghetti and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat before adding other ingredients.

Ingredient Deep Dive

Quality Selection Guide: Choose clams that are tightly closed and have a fresh ocean smell for the best quality.

Storage Tips: Store fresh clams in a breathable container in the fridge and use within 24 hours.

Substitutions: You can substitute clams with shrimp or scallops for a different seafood flavor.

Measurement Conversions: 1 cup of cooked spaghetti is approximately 150 g.

Expert Techniques

Professional Tips: Sauté bacon until crispy before adding other ingredients for deeper flavor.

Common Mistakes: Avoid overcooking the clams; they should only be cooked until they open.

Visual Cues: Clams should be fully open and the spaghetti should be al dente when done.

Equipment Alternatives: A pasta pot with a built-in strainer can simplify the cooking process.

Serving & Presentation

Plating Suggestions: Twirl the spaghetti onto plates and top with clams and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Food Pairing: Serve with a side salad and a light white wine for a complete meal.

Portion Guidelines: Aim for about 75 g of dry spaghetti per person for a generous serving.

Special Occasions: This dish is perfect for informal gatherings or a cozy dinner for two.

Nutrition & Health

Detailed Nutrition: Each serving contains approximately 450 calories, with a balance of carbohydrates and protein.

Health Benefits: Clams are rich in iron and protein, while mushrooms provide essential vitamins.

Dietary Considerations: This dish is low in saturated fat and can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

Wellness Tips: Enhance the dish with a variety of vegetables for added nutrients and fiber.

Storage & Reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For freezing, place in a freezer-safe container, separating portions with parchment paper. Best used within 1 month.
• Reheat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water until heated through, or microwave for 2-3 minutes.
• Ensure food is cooled to room temperature before storing, and reheat to at least 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Variations & Adaptations

• In summer, add fresh tomatoes and basil for a vibrant twist.
• For gluten-free, substitute spaghetti with zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta.
• To scale for larger gatherings, simply double the ingredients and increase cooking time as needed.
• Use canned clams and frozen vegetables for a more economical option without sacrificing flavor.

Troubleshooting FAQ

• If the spaghetti is too sticky, ensure the water is boiling vigorously before adding the pasta.
• Add a splash of olive oil to the pasta to prevent sticking.
• If clams do not open, discard any that remain closed after cooking to avoid food safety issues.
• Prep ingredients while the water boils to streamline cooking time.

Community & Sharing

• Ideal for casual gatherings, serve with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal.
• This dish reflects the coastal Italian tradition of combining seafood and pasta.
• Originating from Mediterranean cuisine, it showcases the region s fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
• Perfect for batch cooking; double the recipe and freeze leftovers for busy weeknights.