Clam Cheese Dunk
A creamy, savory clam cheese dip with a hint of spice and citrus, perfect for serving with chips at parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mash the cream cheese until smooth.
- Drain the chopped clams and save the juice.
- Add the chopped clams, Tabasco sauce, minced garlic, minced onion, and lemon juice to the cream cheese.
- Add enough clam juice to achieve dunking consistency.
- Serve with chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, let the cream cheese sit at room temperature before mashing. If you don't have clams, consider using canned crab meat as a substitute. Adjust the amount of Tabasco sauce to suit your spice preference. Fresh garlic can be used instead of minced, just be mindful of the quantity as it can be more potent. This dunk pairs beautifully with Unfried Fish Fillets.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Clam Cheese Dunk with a variety of chips, such as tortilla or pita chips, for added crunch. It also complements fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and celery. For a more substantial spread, consider serving it alongside crackers or as a topping for toasted baguette slices. This is a great addition to any seafood recipes gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the consistency thickens, stir in a little more clam juice before serving. To reheat, warm gently in a microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until heated through, but avoid boiling to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Clam Cheese Dunk contains roughly 205 calories, with 4g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 9g fat.
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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Clam Cheese Dunk a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe instructions and store it covered in the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to soften it up and enhance the flavors.
What can I use if I can't find canned clams?
If canned clams are unavailable, you can substitute them with canned crab meat or even cooked shrimp. Both options will provide a different but delicious flavor profile that works well with the cream cheese base. Adjust the seasoning as necessary to complement the seafood.
Is this recipe suitable for a party?
Absolutely! This Clam Cheese Dunk is perfect for parties and gatherings. It’s easy to make in large batches and pairs well with various dippers. Consider serving it alongside other appetizers, like Creamed Crab Meat And Shrimp Sauce, for a delightful seafood-themed spread.
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).