Are you a seafood lover looking for new ways to enjoy the ocean’s bounty? Look no further! Steaming is a simple and flavorful way to prepare clams, and when paired with a variety of ingredients, it can result in some truly mouth-watering dishes. From classic combinations like garlic butter and white wine to more adventurous pairings like Thai coconut curry and Cajun spices, there’s something for everyone on this list.
In the following pages, we’ll explore 20 different steamed clams recipes that are sure to please even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or prefer a more subtle approach, these recipes will give you the inspiration and confidence to try something new in the kitchen.
Garlic Butter Steamed Clams
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the brininess of clams with the richness of garlic butter. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket with boiling water.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter and minced garlic until well combined.
3. Place the clams in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each clam.
4. Dot the top of the clams with the garlic butter mixture, dividing it evenly among them.
5. Steam the clams for 8-10 minutes or until they open.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
White Wine and Herb Steamed Clams
This recipe showcases the simplicity of steaming clams with a flavorful twist, combining white wine, herbs, and garlic for a delicious and aromatic dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds fresh clams (such as cherrystone or quahog)
– 1/4 cup dry white wine
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the clams under cold water; scrub any grit off with a brush.
2. In a large pot or steamer basket, combine the wine, parsley, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Add the clams to the pot, making sure they’re not overcrowded.
4. Cover the pot and steam over high heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the clams are fully opened.
5. Remove the pot from the heat; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the steamed clams hot, garnished with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Steamed Clams
Experience the harmonious balance of Thai flavors with this simple yet elegant recipe that combines succulent steamed clams with a rich and creamy coconut curry sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner party or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds fresh clams, scrubbed clean
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket with 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add coconut milk, curry paste, and fish sauce (if using); stir to combine.
4. Arrange clams in the steamer basket; pour the curry mixture over them.
5. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until clams are opened.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Tomato and Basil Steamed Clams
A flavorful twist on a classic seafood dish, this recipe combines the sweetness of clams with the tanginess of tomatoes and basil.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds steamers (cherrystone or littleneck clams)
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– White wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse clams under cold water and scrub clean.
2. In a large saucepan, combine diced tomato, chopped basil, garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes or until the tomatoes release their juices.
3. Add the clams to the saucepan and cover with a lid.
4. Steam the clams for 5-7 minutes or until they open.
5. Serve hot with crusty bread and a squeeze of lemon, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon and Ginger Steamed Clams
This recipe combines the freshness of lemon and ginger with the simplicity of steaming clams, creating a delightful and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds fresh clams, scrubbed clean
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the clams under cold water and place them in a large pot with a lid.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, ginger, garlic, and salt.
3. Pour the lemon-ginger mixture over the clams, then add white wine (if using).
4. Cover the pot and steam the clams over boiling water for 5-7 minutes or until they open.
5. Remove the pot from heat and stir in butter until melted.
6. Serve the clams hot with the pan juices spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sake and Miso Steamed Clams
This recipe combines the brininess of clams with the savory sweetness of sake and miso, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Perfect for a quick and elegant dinner party or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 dozen littleneck clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1/4 cup sake
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket over boiling water.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sake, miso paste, and butter until smooth. Add garlic and stir to combine.
3. Add the clams to the bowl and toss gently to coat with the sake-miso mixture.
4. Steam the clams for 5-7 minutes or until they open.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cajun-Style Steamed Clams
Get ready to taste the rich flavors of Louisiana with this easy and flavorful recipe for Cajun-Style Steamed Clams.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds clams, scrubbed clean and rinsed
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the clams under cold water and place them in a large steamer basket.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the Cajun seasoning, garlic, and lemon slices. Stir until fragrant.
3. Place the steamer basket over the saucepan, making sure not to touch the boiling water.
4. Cover the pot with a lid and steam for 5-7 minutes or until the clams open.
5. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping in the flavorful broth.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Chinese Black Bean Sauce Steamed Clams
A harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors comes together in this simple yet impressive recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds clams, scrubbed clean
– 1/4 cup Chinese black bean sauce (doubanjiang)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket over boiling water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together black bean sauce, garlic, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sesame oil.
3. Place clams in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each clam.
4. Pour the black bean sauce mixture evenly over the clams.
5. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until clams are open and tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro or scallions if desired.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Mediterranean Steamed Clams with Feta
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple yet impressive dish that combines tender clams, tangy feta cheese, and aromatic herbs. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Rinse the clams under cold water and remove any broken or open shells.
2. In a large pot, combine the clams, white wine (if using), olive oil, garlic, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover the pot and steam over high heat until the clams are opened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove the pot from the heat and sprinkle with feta cheese.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Beer-Steamed Clams with Chorizo
Beer-Steamed Clams with Chorizo Recipe
Summary: A flavorful twist on traditional steamed clams, this recipe combines the brininess of beer-steaming with the spicy kick of chorizo. Perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds cherrystone clams
– 1/4 cup chorizo, sliced
– 1/2 cup beer (any type)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse clams under cold water, scrubbing clean if necessary.
3. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine beer, olive oil, garlic, chorizo, and clams. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Steaming for 8-10 minutes or until clams open.
6. Remove from oven, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lemongrass and Chili Steamed Clams
This recipe adds a burst of citrusy freshness to the classic steamed clam dish, with the addition of lemongrass and chili flakes. The result is a harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 4 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the clams under cold running water, scrubbing away any grit.
2. In a large pot, combine the lemongrass stalks, water, butter, and chili flakes. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the clams to the pot, cover with a lid, and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until they open.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoky Bacon and Beer Steamed Clams
Transform your taste buds with this decadent yet easy-to-make recipe, combining the richness of smoky bacon with the subtle sweetness of beer-steamed clams.
Ingredients:
• 2 pounds littleneck clams, scrubbed and rinsed
• 6 slices of thick-cut applewood-smoked bacon, diced
• 1/4 cup beer (any type you prefer)
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket over boiling water.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the beer to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a simmer.
5. Arrange the clams in a single layer on top of the beer mixture in the steamer basket.
6. Pour the bacon drippings over the clams and dot with butter.
7. Cover the steamer basket and steam for 4-6 minutes, or until the clams are tender.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic and White Wine Steamed Littleneck Clams
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of these succulent clams, infused with garlic and white wine. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick yet impressive dinner or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 dozen littleneck clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot or steamer basket, combine clams, garlic, white wine, and butter.
3. Cover the pot or steamer with a lid or foil.
4. Steam for 5-7 minutes or until clams open.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle parsley on top.
6. Serve immediately with crusty bread or over rice.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Japanese Shio Steamed Clams
This classic Japanese recipe showcases the simplicity and elegance of steaming clams with a savory Shio sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these succulent morsels are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds clams (such as littleneck or cherrystone)
– 1/4 cup Shio sauce (see note)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet Japanese cooking sake)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Rinse clams under cold water and scrub clean.
2. In a large steamer basket, combine clams, Shio sauce, soy sauce, sake, mirin, sugar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Steam over boiling water for 8-10 minutes or until clams open.
4. Serve hot with additional Shio sauce on the side, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spanish Sherry-Steamed Clams with Paprika
Savor the flavors of Spain with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines succulent clams with aromatic paprika and a hint of sherry.
Ingredients:
– 2 dozen cherrystone clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1/4 cup dry Spanish sherry
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket over boiling water.
2. In a large bowl, combine clams, sherry, olive oil, onion, garlic, and paprika. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Place the clam mixture in the prepared steamer basket.
4. Steam for 5-7 minutes or until clams are open and cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Fresh Herb and Lemon Steamed Clams
Fresh Herb and Lemon Steamed Clams Recipe
This recipe showcases the simplicity of cooking clams with a burst of freshness from herbs and citrus, perfect for a light and flavorful seafood dish. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds fresh clams
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped chives
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the clams under cold water and scrub them clean.
2. In a large pot with a tight-fitting lid, combine the chopped parsley, chives, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the clams to the pot and cover it with a lid.
4. Steam the clams over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, or until they open.
5. Remove the clams from the pot and serve them with the flavorful broth spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Chili Lime and Cilantro Steamed Clams
This recipe combines the brininess of fresh clams with a zesty kick from chili lime butter, all wrapped up in a fragrant cilantro steam. Perfect for a quick and flavorful seafood dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds fresh clams, scrubbed clean
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup chili lime butter (see note)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large steamer basket over boiling water.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chili lime butter and minced garlic.
3. Add clams to the steamer basket, leaving some space between each clam.
4. Drizzle chili lime butter mixture evenly over the clams.
5. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top.
6. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until clams are opened and tender.
7. Serve with lemon wedges and a side of your choice.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Creamy Garlic and Parmesan Steamed Clams
Elevate your clam game with this rich and savory recipe that combines the brininess of seafood with the creaminess of a garlic-infused sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as an impressive appetizer for a dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds steamed clams, scrubbed clean
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the clams under cold water and place them in a large pot with a tight-fitting lid.
2. Melt the butter over medium heat and add the garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
6. Pour the creamy sauce over the clams, making sure they’re all coated.
7. Cover the pot and steam the clams for 3-5 minutes or until opened.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Prosecco and Parsley Steamed Clams
This elegant seafood dish is a perfect combination of fresh flavors and aromas, making it an ideal choice for a special occasion or a cozy dinner with friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1/4 cup Prosecco
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the clams under cold water and set them aside.
2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the Prosecco and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add the clams to the pot and cover with a lid.
5. Steam the clams for 3-4 minutes or until they open.
6. Remove the clams from the pot and place them on a serving platter. Sprinkle with parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pesto and Cherry Tomato Steamed Clams
A flavorful and refreshing seafood dish perfect for a light and satisfying meal. This recipe combines the brininess of clams with the brightness of cherry tomatoes and the richness of pesto.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds steamed clams
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the clams under cold water and scrub them clean.
2. In a large pot, combine the clams, pesto, and olive oil. Steam over boiling water for 5-7 minutes or until the clams are open.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the pot and continue steaming for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the tomatoes start to release their juices.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the briny delights of steamed clams! This article presents 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility of this seafood staple. From classic garlic butter and white wine herby flavors to bold international twists like Thai coconut curry and Japanese shio, there’s something for every palate. Whether you prefer a light and zesty lemon and ginger or a rich and creamy parmesan and garlic, these steamed clam recipes are sure to impress even the most discerning seafood lovers.
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