Delicious Baked Clams Recipe: A Seafood Lover’s Delight

September 27, 2024

Baked Clams Recipe

Clams are a versatile seafood that can be enjoyed in many ways, but one of the most beloved preparations is baked clams. With their crispy, golden breadcrumb topping and tender, briny meat, baked clams offer a combination of texture and flavor that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re preparing an appetizer for a dinner party or a main course for a cozy night in, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the steps to create the perfect baked clams. Along the way, we’ll discuss some tips and tricks, nutritional benefits, and ways to source high-quality clams for your kitchen. Let’s get started!

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Why Baked Clams?

Baked clams are a classic dish in seafood cuisine, especially in coastal regions where fresh shellfish is abundant. The dish combines the natural flavor of the clams with savory herbs, garlic, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Whether you’re using littlenecks, cherrystones, or another variety of clams, baking allows the clam meat to stay tender and juicy while the topping adds a satisfying crunch.

Renowned seafood chef Rick Moonen, known for his sustainable seafood practices, once said, “Fresh seafood is a celebration of nature. When prepared simply, it highlights the natural flavors we should cherish.” Baked clams, with their minimal ingredients, embody this philosophy perfectly.

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Choosing the Right Clams

For this recipe, it’s essential to choose fresh, high-quality clams. Here are a few options to consider:

• Littleneck Clams: These small, tender clams are perfect for baking. Their size makes them ideal for an appetizer portion.
• Cherrystone Clams: A bit larger than littlenecks, these clams have a firmer texture and are great for more substantial servings.
• Manila Clams: These clams are smaller, sweet, and perfect for any clam dish.

When buying clams, make sure they are alive before cooking. Fresh clams should be tightly closed or should close when tapped. Avoid any clams with broken shells or that remain open after tapping.

For sourcing your clams, always consider sustainably harvested options. You can explore a variety of fresh clams at Global Seafoods or explore other options such as Mussels or the unique Geoduck for a twist on traditional shellfish dishes.

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Nutritional Benefits of Baked Clams

Clams are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. A serving of clams provides a rich source of:

• Protein: High in protein, clams are perfect for those looking to maintain a lean diet.
• Iron: Clams are one of the highest dietary sources of iron, making them excellent for combating fatigue and boosting energy.
• Vitamin B12: Essential for brain health and the production of red blood cells.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Known for heart health benefits, clams are rich in omega-3s, which help reduce inflammation and promote cardiovascular health.

Adding clams to your diet can offer numerous health benefits. According to the American Heart Association, incorporating seafood into your meals at least twice a week can significantly improve heart health.

For an even more nutrient-packed seafood experience, consider adding delicacies like Abalone and Sea Urchin Uni to your seafood repertoire.

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How to Clean Clams Before Baking

Cleaning your clams properly is key to ensuring that your baked clams taste their best. Here's a step-by-step guide to prepping your clams:

1. Soak the Clams: Place the clams in a bowl of cold water with a pinch of salt. Let them soak for about 20 minutes to release any sand or grit.
2. Scrub the Shells: Using a brush, scrub each clam under running water to remove any dirt from the shell.
3. Rinse: Give the clams one last rinse in clean water before cooking.

For a more detailed process, check out our guide on how to clean clams like a pro.

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Baked Clams Recipe

Ingredients:

• 12 fresh clams (littlenecks or cherrystones)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Lemon wedges, for garnish
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Clams: Place the cleaned clams on a baking sheet. If needed, you can slightly open them to remove the clam from its shell, but keep the meat attached.
3. Mix the Topping: In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper. The mixture should be moist but crumbly.
4. Top the Clams: Spoon the breadcrumb mixture over each clam, pressing it lightly so it adheres to the surface.
5. Bake: Place the clams in the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy.
6. Serve: Garnish with lemon wedges and serve immediately.

Pair these baked clams with a crisp glass of white wine or serve alongside pasta for a complete seafood feast!

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Where to Buy the Best Ingredients for Baked Clams

To create the best baked clams, sourcing fresh, high-quality ingredients is essential. At Global Seafoods, you can find a wide range of fresh and sustainable seafood products, from Clams to Mussels, and even rare delicacies like Gooseneck Barnacles. Whether you're preparing clams for a simple dinner or an elaborate seafood feast, Global Seafoods has everything you need.

For those looking to expand their seafood menu, explore other shellfish like Scallops, Oysters, and even Lobster Tail for a truly decadent dining experience.

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Conclusion: Elevate Your Seafood Cooking with Baked Clams

Baked clams are a simple yet delicious way to enjoy one of the ocean’s best offerings. With a crisp, flavorful topping and tender, briny clam meat, this dish is sure to please any seafood lover. By following this recipe and sourcing high-quality clams from Global Seafoods, you’ll be able to bring the taste of the coast straight to your table.

Whether you're a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned seafood chef, this baked clam recipe offers something for everyone. Don't forget to check out the variety of fresh seafood available at Global Seafoods to elevate your home-cooked meals.

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