Are you a fan of the ocean’s bounty? Do you love the briny flavor of clams in all their forms? From chowders to curries, and from soups to salads, there are countless ways to enjoy these delicious mollusks. In this article, we’ll be diving into 18 savory clam recipes that will take your taste buds on a journey around the world.
From classic New England Clam Chowder to Spicy Thai Clam Curry, and from Clam and Corn Fritters to Linguine with White Clam Sauce, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or something bold and adventurous, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be exploring a variety of clam-based dishes that showcase the versatility and flavor of these tasty treats. So grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and get ready to dive into the wonderful world of clams!
Classic New England Clam Chowder
A creamy and comforting classic, this clam chowder is a staple of New England cuisine. This recipe yields a rich and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups whole milk or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add clams, clam juice, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until clams are tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
5. Gradually add milk or half-and-half, stirring constantly.
6. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until chowder has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Steamed Clams
Savor the sweet flavor of fresh clams infused with rich garlic butter and aromatic steam.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds cherrystone or littleneck clams, scrubbed clean
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket or a large pot with a steamer insert over boiling water.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Place clams in the prepared steamer basket. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the clams.
4. Cover the steamer and steam for 3-5 minutes or until clams open.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Spicy Thai Clam Curry
This Spicy Thai Clam Curry recipe combines the flavors of Thailand with the freshness of clams, all wrapped up in a spicy and savory curry sauce. Perfect for seafood lovers and those who enjoy a little heat!
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste
– 1/2 teaspoon fish sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, clam juice, curry paste, fish sauce, brown sugar, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer, then add clams.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until clams are cooked through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Clam and Corn Fritters
Savor the sweet and savory combination of fresh clams and corn kernels in these crispy, golden fritters.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup fresh clams, chopped
– 1 cup corn kernels, drained
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, combine milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the clam and corn mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
7. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
8. Remove fritters from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Linguine with White Clam Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple and delicious pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white clam sauce (see below for recipe)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt, to taste
White Clam Sauce Recipe:
– 1 can (6.5 oz) of chopped clams in white wine sauce
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Pour in the white clam sauce and stir to combine with the butter and garlic. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add the cooked linguine pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
5. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and chopped parsley. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Clam and Bacon Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this savory and indulgent recipe featuring succulent clams, crispy bacon, and earthy mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/2 cup of fresh clam meat, chopped
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushroom caps by gently wiping away any dirt or debris.
3. In a bowl, combine clams, crumbled bacon, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the clam mixture, dividing it evenly among the 12 mushrooms.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Clam and Chorizo Paella
Savor the bold flavors of Spain with this vibrant paella recipe, featuring succulent clams, spicy chorizo, and fragrant saffron.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Calasparra rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 pound Spanish chorizo, sliced
– 2 pounds clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chorizo and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add garlic, smoked paprika, and saffron mixture; stir to combine.
5. Add clams and cook until they start to open, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Add rice and stir to coat with the flavorful liquid.
7. Add water as needed to cover the rice by about 1 inch.
8. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Clam and Shrimp Ceviche
Ceviche is a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for warm weather or any time you want a light and zesty meal. This recipe combines the sweetness of clams and shrimp with the tanginess of lime juice, creating a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine clams and shrimp.
2. Pour in the lime juice, making sure that all seafood is coated.
3. Add the chopped onion and cilantro, stirring gently to combine.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Clam and Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of potatoes with the brininess of clams. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the diced potatoes, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the potatoes are slightly tender.
4. Add the clams to the skillet and stir to combine with the potato mixture.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the clams are cooked through.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Clam and Herb Risotto
Rich and creamy risotto infused with the brininess of clams and the freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups clam juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup freshly shucked clams, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Add clam juice, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. If using white wine, add it after 3 cups of clam juice have been added.
6. Stir in clams, parsley, and dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Clam and Spinach Stuffed Shells
A delicious twist on traditional stuffed shells, this recipe combines the brininess of clams with the earthiness of spinach, all wrapped up in a creamy pasta package.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup freshly shucked clam meat, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté garlic, spinach, and clams in heavy cream until the mixture is creamy and the flavors have melded together.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the clam-spinach mixture, topping each with Parmesan cheese.
5. Place stuffed shells on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Clam and Tomato Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this bruschetta recipe, combining the sweetness of tomatoes with the ocean’s bounty.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 can (6.5 oz) of clams, drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cherry tomatoes, clams, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon the clam-tomato mixture onto each bread slice, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until bread is toasted and toppings are heated through.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Clam and Garlic Pizza
A classic combination of flavors, this Clam and Garlic Pizza is a perfect blend of brininess from the clams and richness from the garlic. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup freshly shucked clams (about 12-15 pieces)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together clams, garlic, olive oil, and oregano. Spread mixture evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the clam mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Clam and Coconut Milk Soup
This rich and creamy soup is a perfect blend of briny clams, velvety coconut milk, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a comforting lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/2 cup clam juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add clams and cook, stirring occasionally, until they open, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in coconut milk, clam juice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Clam and Sausage Jambalaya
Jambalaya, a classic Creole dish from Louisiana, gets a seafood twist with this spicy clam and sausage recipe. This flavorful one-pot meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 lbs clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Cooked white rice, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large cast-iron pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add clams, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return sausage to the pot and stir to coat with the clam mixture.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until clams are open.
7. Serve hot over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Clam and Kale Pasta Bake
A comforting and flavorful one-dish meal that combines the brininess of clams with the earthiness of kale, all wrapped up in a creamy pasta bake.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, linguine)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh or canned clams, drained and chopped
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add clams and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they start to open.
5. Stir in kale and cook until wilted.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, clam-kale mixture, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Clam and Lemon Butter Pasta
A delicious and light seafood pasta dish that combines the brininess of clams with the brightness of lemon and the richness of butter.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup (120g) chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound (450g) clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add lemon juice, parsley, and clams. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until clams open.
4. Combine cooked pasta, clam mixture, and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Clam and Dill Dip
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this refreshing dip that combines the sweetness of clams with the tanginess of dill.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6.5 oz) can of chopped clams, drained
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped clams, mayonnaise, dill, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep), 30 minutes (chilling)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a culinary journey with these 18 savory clam recipes! From classic New England Clam Chowder to innovative dishes like Spicy Thai Clam Curry and Clam and Coconut Milk Soup, there’s something for every palate. Other mouthwatering options include Clam and Bacon Stuffed Mushrooms, Linguine with White Clam Sauce, and Clam and Kale Pasta Bake. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to mix things up in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to impress. So go ahead, get cooking, and shell-ebrate the flavors of the sea!
