Baked Clams

Introduction

History

The tradition of baking clams dates back centuries, with various cultures around the world preparing them in unique ways. In the United States, Baked Clams became popular in the early 20th century, especially in coastal regions where clams were plentiful. The recipe has Italian roots, with the classic combination of garlic, olive oil, and breadcrumbs reflecting the Mediterranean influence. Over the years, it has evolved, with different regions adding their own twist to the basic recipe.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Baked Clams turn out perfectly, follow these tips:

- Use fresh clams for the best flavor. They should be tightly closed or close when tapped.

- Chill the clams in the freezer before opening them to make the process easier.

- Save the clam juice as you open the clams; it adds a rich, briny flavor to the dish.

- Gently cook the garlic to avoid bitterness.

- Use fresh breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier topping.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Baked Clams hot, garnished with lemon wedges for a fresh, citrusy accent. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a light salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of pasta for a more filling meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the preferred cooking technique for this recipe, as it allows the clams to cook evenly while the breadcrumbs turn golden and crispy. Ensure the baking dish is preheated to the right temperature for the best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh clams are not available, canned clams can be used as a substitute. Drain them well before use.

- Panko breadcrumbs can be used instead of regular breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.

- If you're out of oregano, thyme or marjoram make good substitutes.

Make Ahead Tips

The breadcrumb mixture can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The clams can also be cleaned and prepared up to a day in advance, stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Baked Clams in their shells on a bed of coarse sea salt or crushed ice for an elegant presentation. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh herbs for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Baked Clams pair beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, a lemon-infused sparkling water complements the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Baked Clams can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

The calorie content per serving will vary depending on the size of the servings. However, a rough estimate for this recipe, divided into four servings, would be about 300-350 calories per serving. This includes the calories from the clams, olive oil, breadcrumbs, and garlic.

Carbohydrates

This Baked Clams recipe is relatively low in carbohydrates. The primary source of carbs comes from the breadcrumbs, with one cup providing approximately 22 grams of carbohydrates. The overall carbohydrate content per serving will depend on the number of clams and the amount of breadcrumb mixture used.

Fats

Olive oil is the main source of fat in this recipe, contributing to the dish's heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Each tablespoon of olive oil contains about 14 grams of fat, making the total fat content in this recipe approximately 112 grams from the olive oil alone. However, since this is spread across multiple servings, the fat content per serving is considerably lower.

Proteins

Clams are an excellent source of lean protein. A single medium-sized clam provides about 2 grams of protein. With 24 clams in this recipe, the total protein content is around 48 grams, depending on the size of the clams. This makes Baked Clams a great option for a protein-rich meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Clams are rich in various vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin B12, iron, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, and selenium. They also provide a good amount of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. The olive oil adds vitamin E and K to the dish.

Alergens

The primary allergen in this recipe is shellfish (clams). Individuals with a shellfish allergy should avoid this dish. Additionally, the breadcrumbs may contain gluten, which is another common allergen.

Summary

Baked Clams is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It's relatively low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a great option for those looking for a lighter, nutritious meal.

Summary

This Baked Clams recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of the sea. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it's a dish that can be enjoyed on any occasion. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, Baked Clams is sure to satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Maria at her beach house. Maria was always known for her delicious seafood dishes, so I was excited when she told me she was going to make her famous Baked Clams for dinner.

As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I could smell the mouth-watering aroma of garlic, parsley, and butter wafting through the air. Maria greeted me with a warm smile and handed me a glass of chilled white wine. She then proceeded to show me how to prepare the Baked Clams.

First, Maria washed the clams thoroughly and placed them on a baking sheet. She then mixed together breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and melted butter in a bowl. She generously spooned this mixture onto each clam, making sure to cover them completely.

As Maria placed the baking sheet into the oven, she explained to me that the clams would only need to bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until they were golden brown and the breadcrumbs were crispy. She also mentioned that it was important to not overcook the clams, as they could become tough and chewy.

While the clams were baking, Maria shared with me the story of how she learned to make this dish. She told me that she had first tasted Baked Clams at a seaside restaurant in Italy many years ago. She was so impressed with the flavors and textures of the dish that she begged the chef to share his recipe with her.

The chef, a kind old man with a twinkle in his eye, agreed to teach Maria how to make the Baked Clams. He took her under his wing and showed her all of his secrets, from how to choose the freshest clams at the market to the perfect ratio of breadcrumbs to butter.

Maria said that she had made the Baked Clams countless times since then, always tweaking the recipe slightly to suit her own tastes. She told me that the key to a successful dish was to use the best quality ingredients and to not skimp on the garlic or parsley.

When the timer went off, Maria pulled the baking sheet out of the oven and the clams looked perfect. The breadcrumbs were golden and crispy, the garlic was fragrant, and the parsley added a pop of color. We eagerly dug in, savoring each bite and washing it down with more wine.

As I savored the delicious flavors of the Baked Clams, I knew that I had to add this recipe to my own collection. Maria graciously shared the recipe with me, writing it down on a piece of paper so that I wouldn't forget any of the steps.

Since that day, I have made Maria's Baked Clams many times for my family and friends. Each time I prepare this dish, I am reminded of that sunny summer day at the beach house and the joy of learning a new recipe from a dear friend.

So, if you ever find yourself craving a taste of the sea, I recommend trying this recipe for Baked Clams. It's simple, delicious, and sure to impress even the most discerning seafood lover. And who knows, perhaps one day you'll have your own happy memory of discovering this recipe for the first time.

Categories

| New England Recipes | New England Snacks | Oregano Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients