If you love seafood, this recipe for buttery clams is about to become your favorite. With minimal prep and cook time, it’s the perfect blend of rich, tangy, and herbaceous flavors. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
- Bursting with Flavor: Butter, garlic, lemon, and fresh parsley create a sauce you’ll want to savor with every bite.
- Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, light dinner, or pair with pasta for a heartier meal.
- Impressive Yet Simple: Elegant enough for guests, easy enough for a casual meal.
Ingredients for Buttery Clams with Herbs
- 1 kg fresh clams (about 2.2 lbs)
- 4 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Chef’s Tip: Use fresh clams from a trusted fishmonger and discard any that don’t close when tapped.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Clams
- Rinse the clams thoroughly under cold running water to remove sand and debris.
- If any clams remain open after tapping them gently, discard them.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped shallots.
- Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and softened.
3. Cook the Clams
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the cleaned clams to the skillet.
- Cover with a lid and cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the pan gently a couple of times to ensure even cooking.
- Check that all the clams have opened; discard any that remain closed.
4. Add the Finishing Touches
- Toss in the fresh parsley and drizzle with the lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently to coat the clams in the sauce.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the clams hot, directly from the skillet, with crusty bread on the side to soak up the sauce.
- Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges for a bright, fresh finish.
Serving Suggestions
- With Bread: Crusty baguette or sourdough is perfect for dipping into the buttery sauce.
- Over Pasta: Toss the clams and sauce with linguine or spaghetti for a heartier meal.
- Paired with Wine: Serve with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for the ultimate seafood pairing.
- Side Salad: Add a light arugula or citrus salad for a refreshing complement.
Chef’s Tips for Success
- Choose Fresh Clams: Fresh clams should smell like the sea and feel heavy for their size.
- Avoid Overcooking: Clams cook quickly; remove them as soon as they open to prevent toughness.
- Deglaze the Pan: For added depth of flavor, splash a bit of white wine into the pan after sautéing the garlic and shallots.
- Add Heat: For a spicy kick, sprinkle in red pepper flakes with the garlic.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 18g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on specific ingredients used.
FAQs
Can I use frozen clams?
Yes, but fresh clams are best for flavor and texture. Thaw frozen clams completely before cooking.
What if I don’t have shallots?
Substitute with half an onion, finely chopped.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover clams and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat.
Can I add other herbs?
Absolutely! Basil, dill, or chives can complement the flavors nicely.
What other seafood can I use?
This buttery sauce works beautifully with mussels, scallops, or even shrimp.
Conclusion
Vibrant Buttery Clams with Herbs is a dish that brings the ocean’s bounty straight to your table. With its rich, buttery sauce and simple yet bold flavors, it’s an easy way to elevate your seafood game.
Serve it with your favorite sides, pour a glass of wine, and enjoy a culinary escape to the coast—no matter where you are.