Baked Stuffed Clams Recipe

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time

20 minutes

Additional Time

5 minutes

Total Time

45 minutes

Servings

12 clams

Ingredients

• 12 large clams, shucked, shells reserved
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Steps to Cook

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, lemon juice, and crushed red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Arrange the reserved clam shells on a baking sheet. Carefully spoon the breadcrumb mixture into the shells, filling them evenly.
5. Bake the stuffed clams in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is golden brown and the clams are heated through.
6. Remove the baked stuffed clams from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Cook’s Note

• For a richer flavor, you can use a combination of butter and olive oil in the filling.
• If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a small amount of heavy cream or cream cheese to the filling.
• For a crunchier topping, you can broil the stuffed clams for 1-2 minutes after baking.
• Serve the baked stuffed clams warm, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired.

Healthy Food Recipes: Baked Stuffed Clams

Introduction

Baked stuffed clams are a delightful seafood dish that combines the briny flavor of clams with a savory, crunchy topping. This recipe offers a healthier twist on the classic, with a focus on fresh ingredients and balanced flavors. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or looking to incorporate more nutritious options into your diet, this baked stuffed clams recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

Nutritional Benefits

Clams are a highly nutritious seafood choice, packed with essential vitamins and minerals. They are an excellent source of protein, providing a lean and low-calorie option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Clams are rich in iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, all of which are crucial for proper bodily function and overall well-being.

The other ingredients in this recipe, such as onions, garlic, and parsley, also offer a range of health benefits. Onions are a rich source of antioxidants, which can help protect against cellular damage and inflammation. Garlic is known for its antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties, while parsley is a nutrient-dense herb that provides vitamins A, C, and K, as well as various minerals.

By baking the stuffed clams instead of frying, this recipe minimizes the use of unhealthy fats, making it a more health-conscious choice. The panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese in the filling provide texture and flavor without adding excessive calories or saturated fat.

Ingredients and Preparation

To begin, you’ll need 12 large clams, which have been shucked, with the shells reserved. This ensures that the clams remain intact and the presentation is visually appealing.

In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add a small, finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook the mixture until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes. This step helps to develop the savory base of the filling.

Next, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Season the filling with salt and black pepper to taste, ensuring a well-balanced flavor profile.

Arrange the reserved clam shells on a baking sheet, and carefully spoon the breadcrumb mixture into each shell, filling them evenly. This step allows the clams to be baked directly in their natural shells, adding to the overall presentation and preserving the natural shape of the clams.

Baking and Serving

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the stuffed clams for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is golden brown and the clams are heated through. This gentle baking process helps to retain the moisture and tenderness of the clams while ensuring the topping is crisp and flavorful.

Once the baked stuffed clams are out of the oven, let them cool for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the filling to set slightly.

To serve, you can garnish the baked stuffed clams with additional chopped parsley, if desired. These delightful seafood bites can be enjoyed as a appetizer, a light main course, or even as part of a larger seafood-focused meal.

Variations and Customizations

For a richer flavor, you can use a combination of butter and olive oil in the filling. This adds a depth of flavor and a slight creaminess to the overall texture.

If you prefer a creamier stuffing, you can incorporate a small amount of heavy cream or cream cheese into the filling. This will result in a more indulgent and luxurious texture.

For a crunchier topping, you can broil the stuffed clams for 1-2 minutes after baking. This will create a golden-brown, crispy crust on the breadcrumb mixture.

Conclusion

Baked stuffed clams are a delicious and nutritious seafood dish that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced, healthy diet. By focusing on fresh, high-quality ingredients and utilizing healthy cooking techniques, this recipe offers a flavorful and satisfying option that can be easily incorporated into your weekly meal planning. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply looking to add more seafood to your repertoire, this baked stuffed clams recipe is sure to impress and delight your taste buds.