Linguine with Bacon and Clams

Here is a perfect Valentines dinner to make at home. Not only is this recipe "healthy", but bacon and clams are natural aphrodisiacs. 
                                         ---Cook Because You Can!




4     strips bacon, thinly sliced width wise
1     red onion, diced
2     garlic cloves, thinly sliced
Generous pinch of red-pepper flakes
32   clams, scrubbed clean
1     cup dry white wine
12   oz whole-wheat linguine
1/4  cup chopped parsley



Heat a large saute pan on medium and add the bacon pieces. Cook them until the fat is released and they're well browned, about 5 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to a plate. Pour out all but a thin film of the fat.

Return the pan to medium heat and add the onion, garlic, and red-pepper flakes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the clams and wine and continue to cook until most of the wine has evaporated and all the clams have opened, about 10 minutes. (If the clams aren't opening, cover the pan until they do.)

While the clams cook, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain the noodles (but keep 1/4 cup pasta water) and pour them into the pan with the opened clams. Add the browned bacon and the parsley and cook, tossing, for 30 seconds. Add a bit of the pasta water if the noodles look dry.

Divide the clams and pasta among four warm bowls and serve immediately. Makes 4 servings


Per Serving
472 calories, 27 grams (g) protein, 63 g carbohydrates (13 g fiber), 8 g fat, 160 milligrams sodium



Mens Health Magazine --- Jan 2011