Alan Dimisko'S Clam Dip
A creamy, savory clam dip with herbs and a hint of spice, perfect for parties and served with crackers for a flavorful appetizer experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the minced clams and lemon juice in a frying pan and cook over medium heat for 15 minutes.
- In another pan, cook the onion, garlic, green pepper, butter, parsley, and spices until the onions and green pepper are tender.
- Add the cooked clam mixture to the sautéed vegetables and spices, mixing well.
- Combine the mixture with ricotta cheese and stir until blended.
- Transfer everything to a baking dish and top with additional cheese if desired.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dip, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the ricotta. If you don't have minced clams, chopped canned clams can work as a substitute. To enhance the flavor, try using fresh herbs instead of dried, and adjust the spices according to your heat preference. This dip can also benefit from a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before baking for added richness.
Serving Suggestions
This clam dip is delightful served with assorted crackers, toasted baguette slices, or vegetable sticks. For a more robust appetizer platter, pair it with a fresh salad or serve alongside Colin'S Favorite Meat Loaf. A chilled glass of white wine or a light beer complements the flavors beautifully, making it perfect for gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dip in an oven-safe dish and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, until heated through. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Alan Dimisko'S Clam Dip contains roughly 210 calories, with 3g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (37% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this clam dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the clam dip a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
If you don't have ricotta cheese, mascarpone or cream cheese can be great alternatives. They will give a creamy texture, with cream cheese adding a slightly tangier flavor. Just ensure to soften them before mixing for easy blending.
Is there a vegetarian option for this clam dip?
To create a vegetarian version, simply omit the clams and add more vegetables like mushrooms or artichokes. You can also mix in some cooked spinach for added flavor and texture, making it a delicious alternative while still retaining the essence of the original recipe.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).