Stuffed Clams Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Additional Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 12 clams

Ingredients:

• 12 large clams, shucked, juices 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 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Steps to Cook:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the reserved clam juice, panko, Parmesan, parsley, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Arrange the shucked clams on a baking sheet. Spoon the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the clams.
5. Bake until the topping is golden brown and the clams are cooked through, about 15 minutes.
6. Serve the stuffed clams immediately, with lemon wedges on the side.

Cook’s Note:

• To shuck the clams, hold each one firmly with a towel and insert an oyster knife or sturdy paring knife into the hinge. Twist the knife to pop open the shell, then run the knife along the inside of the top shell to detach the clam. Discard the top shell and reserve the juices in the bottom shell.
• For easier handling, you can ask your fishmonger to shuck the clams for you.
• Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of spiciness.
• Leftover stuffed clams can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes before serving.
• Serve the stuffed clams as an appetizer or a light main course, accompanied by a fresh salad or crusty bread.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 1 stuffed clam Calories: 75 Total Fat: 3.5g Saturated Fat: 2g Cholesterol: 15mg Sodium: 220mg Total Carbohydrates: 7g Dietary Fiber: 0.5g Sugars: 0.5g Protein: 5g

This stuffed clams recipe is a delightful and healthy appetizer or light main course. The combination of fresh clams, savory breadcrumb topping, and tangy lemon zest creates a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Clams are an excellent source of protein, providing 5 grams per serving. They are also rich in essential minerals like iron, zinc, and selenium, which are important for maintaining a healthy immune system and supporting overall well-being.

The breadcrumb topping adds a crunchy texture and a boost of fiber, while the Parmesan cheese provides a rich, umami flavor. The lemon zest and parsley add a bright, fresh note that balances the richness of the dish.

To make this recipe even healthier, you can adjust the amount of butter used and opt for a lower-fat Parmesan cheese. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile to your liking.

Serve these stuffed clams as a sophisticated appetizer at your next dinner party or as a light main course accompanied by a fresh salad and crusty bread. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Enjoy this delicious and nutritious stuffed clams recipe!