When it comes to seafood that embodies freshness and simplicity, Steamed Clams with Garlic, Lemon & Parsley is a top contender. This delightful dish is not only brimming with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends. Imagine sitting at the table, the warm aroma of garlic and herbs permeating the air, while crusty bread waits eagerly to be dipped into the flavorful broth—this is what culinary bliss looks like!
The briny clams, steamed to perfection, take on a beautiful juiciness that’s amplified by the zesty lemon and aromatic garlic. It’s a dish that brings a hint of the ocean right to your dining table, providing a fresh taste of seaside dining no matter where you are. Plus, the vibrant parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh herbaceous note that complements the dish beautifully. Perfectly paired with a glass of white wine, Steamed Clams with Garlic, Lemon & Parsley is sure to impress and satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Steamed Clams with Garlic, Lemon & Parsley
- Flavorful and Aromatic: The combination of garlic, lemon, and parsley creates a symphony of flavors that elevate the natural brininess of the clams.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation and cooking time, this dish can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Perfect for Sharing: Serve it hot with crusty bread, making it a fun, shareable dish for any gathering.
- Healthy Choice: Clams are packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals, making this a nutritious meal.
- Impressive Presentation: The visual appeal of fresh clams in a flavorful broth topped with parsley makes for an eye-catching dish.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the cooking process, ensure your kitchen is well-prepped. Start by gathering all the ingredients and tools you will need for the recipe. Here’s a quick list of what you’ll require:
- A large pot with a lid for steaming the clams
- A cutting board and knife for chopping garlic and parsley
- A bowl for rinsing and scrubbing the clams
- A measuring cup for liquids
Make sure to rinse the clams thoroughly under cold water to remove any sand or debris. This step is crucial for enjoying a clean, fresh flavor in your dish. Have your crusty bread ready for serving, as this will be the perfect accompaniment to savor the delicious broth.
Ingredients
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ½ cup dry white wine
- Zest of ½ lemon
- 2 lbs (900g) fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Clean and Prepare the Clams
Begin by rinsing and scrubbing the clams under cold, running water. This cleansing step is vital to remove any sand or grit that may be present. Discard any clams that are cracked or fail to close when tapped, as they may not be suitable for cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté them for about 1–2 minutes, until the garlic releases its fragrant aroma. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as this can impart a bitter taste.
Step 3: Steam the Clams
Next, pour in the dry white wine and bring it to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, carefully add the prepared clams to the pot. Cover with a lid and steam the clams for approximately 5–7 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they will soon begin to open up, indicating that they are cooked. Discard any clams that remain closed after steaming.
Step 4: Enhance Flavor with Lemon and Parsley
After the clams are fully cooked, squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and sprinkle the zest along with the chopped parsley over the top. Give everything a gentle stir and season to taste with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the steamed clams along with the flavorful broth into a serving bowl. Serve hot with slices of crusty bread that are perfect for soaking up the delicious broth. Enjoy immediately!
Variations
- Protein: Experiment with different shellfish such as mussels or shrimp for a twist on the traditional recipe.
- Vegetables: Add diced tomatoes or spinach to introduce extra texture and flavor.
- Spices: Incorporate a dash of smoked paprika or a hint of saffron for a unique flavor profile.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure your clams are fresh by purchasing them from a reputable source and consuming them as soon as possible.
- For best flavor, opt for a good-quality dry white wine, as it significantly affects the overall taste of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve your Steamed Clams with a chilled glass of white wine for a sophisticated pairing.
- Accompany the meal with a light salad or pasta for a complete dining experience.
Tips
- For an extra kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.
- If you have any leftovers, be sure to store the clams in the broth to retain moisture.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
How do I know when the clams are fully cooked?
Clams are cooked when their shells open during the steaming process. Discard any clams that remain closed, as they are likely not safe to eat.
Can I substitute the clams with another type of seafood?
Yes! You can use mussels or shrimp instead of clams in this recipe, keeping in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
What wine should I use for steaming clams?
A dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is ideal for steaming clams, as it adds depth to the flavor of the broth.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While clams are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the broth ahead of time and steam the clams just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Steamed Clams with Garlic, Lemon & Parsley is a dish that perfectly balances simplicity and elegance. With its minimal ingredient list and quick preparation, it’s an ideal recipe for both novice cooks and experienced chefs. The blend of briny clams with zesty lemon and fragrant garlic creates a delectable culinary experience that’s hard to resist. We encourage you to try this recipe, share your experience in the comments, and consider experimenting with the variations to make this dish uniquely yours. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a celebration with friends, these steamed clams are sure to be a hit!
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Steamed Clams with Garlic, Lemon & Parsley
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A delightful, flavorful dish featuring fresh clams, garlic, lemon, and parsley.
Ingredients
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ½ cup dry white wine
- Zest of ½ lemon
- 2 lbs (900g) fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing and scrubbing the clams under cold, running water. This cleansing step is vital to remove any sand or grit that may be present. Discard any clams that are cracked or fail to close when tapped, as they may not be suitable for cooking.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté them for about 1–2 minutes, until the garlic releases its fragrant aroma. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as this can impart a bitter taste.
- Next, pour in the dry white wine and bring it to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, carefully add the prepared clams to the pot. Cover with a lid and steam the clams for approximately 5–7 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they will soon begin to open up, indicating that they are cooked. Discard any clams that remain closed after steaming.
- After the clams are fully cooked, squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and sprinkle the zest along with the chopped parsley over the top. Give everything a gentle stir and season to taste with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Transfer the steamed clams along with the flavorful broth into a serving bowl. Serve hot with slices of crusty bread that are perfect for soaking up the delicious broth. Enjoy immediately!
Notes
Make sure clams are freshly purchased and consumed as soon as possible for the best taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 30 g