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Linguine with Clams and Fresh Herbs

This elegant linguine with clams is a sophisticated seafood dish that brings the fresh flavours of the coast to your kitchen. By combining sweet canned clams with fresh, briny Manila or littleneck clams, you create a deep, savoury base that perfectly complements the aromatic blend of tarragon, basil, and parsley. A splash of double cream adds a subtle richness to the sauce, ensuring every strand of pasta is beautifully coated.

As a high-protein dinner option, this meal is both satisfying and nutritious, making it an excellent choice for a midweek treat or an impressive weekend lunch. The use of fresh herbs provides a bright, fragrant finish that lifts the dish, while the simple cooking method ensures the clams remain tender. Serve in warmed bowls with a crisp green salad for a complete Mediterranean-style feast.

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Ingredients for Linguine with Clams and Fresh Herbs

  • 230g linguine

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 2 garlic cloves, chopped

  • 2 6 1/60g cans chopped clams in juice

  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil

  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon

  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

  • 18 small clams (such as Manila or tiny littleneck), scrubbed

  • 60ml whipping cream

How to make Linguine with Clams and Fresh Herbs

Cook pasta in large pot of boiling salted water until tender but still firm to bite, stirring occasionally. Drain pasta.

Meanwhile, heat oil in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add canned clams with juice, basil, tarragon, and parsley. Add fresh clams. Cover; reduce heat to medium and cook until clams open, about 6 minutes. Using tongs, transfer fresh clams to plate (discard any clams that do not open). Add cooked pasta and cream to sauce in skillet. Toss over medium-high heat until sauce coats pasta, about 1 minute. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Divide pasta between bowls. Top with fresh clams and serve.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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