What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This steamed clams recipe is easy to follow and perfect for a quick, delicious meal. You’ll love how fresh and flavorful it turns out, impressing everyone at the table.
- Simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store make this dish a breeze to prepare.
- The steaming process keeps the clams tender and juicy, bringing out their natural, briny goodness.
- It’s a versatile recipe that pairs well with crusty bread, pasta, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Recipe
Steamed clams are a classic seafood dish that’s simple yet packed with flavor. Fresh clams steamed in a savory broth with garlic, white wine, and herbs make for a delicious appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs fresh clams (littlenecks or manila)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Rinse clams under cold water, scrubbing if needed, and discard any that are open or cracked.
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in white wine and broth, then bring to a simmer.
- Add clams, cover, and steam for 5–7 minutes until shells open. Discard any unopened clams.
- Stir in parsley, lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Serve immediately with crusty bread to soak up the broth.
Notes:
- Use fresh, live clams for the best results.
- Adjust the broth seasoning to taste before adding clams.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Serving: 4
Calories: ~180 per serving
Cuisine: American/Mediterranean
Equipment
To make steamed clams, you’ll need a few essential tools to guarantee the dish turns out perfectly. The right equipment helps maintain flavor and texture while simplifying the cooking process.
- Large pot with a tight-fitting lid – Guarantees even steaming and traps heat effectively.
- Steamer basket or colander – Keeps clams elevated above the boiling liquid for proper steaming.
- Tongs or slotted spoon – For safely removing clams from the pot.
- Cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer – Useful for straining the broth if serving separately.
- Large bowl – For soaking and cleaning clams before cooking.
Nutrition
Steamed clams are a nutritious and delicious seafood dish. They are low in calories and high in essential nutrients.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 126 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Fat | 1.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 4 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 48 mg |
| Cholesterol | 67 mg |
What to Serve With This Recipe
When I serve steamed clams, I like to pair them with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to balance the briny flavor. A side of crusty bread or garlic butter pasta complements the dish perfectly, soaking up that delicious broth. You could also add a simple green salad for a fresh, light contrast.
Wine Pairing Suggestions
Ever wondered what wine makes steamed clams taste even better? I love a crisp, citrusy white like Sauvignon Blanc or Albariño—their bright acidity cuts through the richness of chorizo. A dry rosé works too, balancing the dish’s flavors without overpowering them. If you prefer bubbles, try a brut sparkling wine. Trust me, the right sip turns each bite into a little celebration. Cheers to that!
Side Dish Ideas
Alongside a great wine, I’ve found that the right side dishes can really make steamed clams shine. I love pairing them with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth, or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for a fresh contrast. Roasted potatoes or a light pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs also work wonders. These sides keep the meal balanced and let the clams take center stage.
