Clam-Cheese Spread
A creamy, savory clam cheese spread with a hint of leek flavor, perfect for entertaining or snacking on crackers and toast, offering a rich and indulgent taste experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the cream cheese, melted butter, and dry leek soup mix in a food processor until smooth.
- Add the smoked clams last and pulse briefly to incorporate.
- Transfer to a refrigerator container and chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Serve with sea rounds or Melba toast.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother spread, ensure the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before blending. If you can't find dry leek soup mix, substitute with onion soup mix for a different flavor profile. You can also add herbs like dill or chives to enhance the taste further. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and butter.
Serving Suggestions
This delicious clam-cheese spread is perfect served with sea rounds or Melba toast. Pair it with a fresh vegetable platter for crunch or alongside crackers for a delightful appetizer. It also complements a chilled glass of white wine or a light beer. For an interesting twist, try it with the flavors found in Daisy'S Crab Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The clam-cheese spread will keep well for about a week. To reheat, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften, or gently warm in the microwave for a few seconds if desired. Avoid overheating to preserve texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Clam-Cheese Spread contains roughly 260 calories, with 4g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (17% of the Daily Value).
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 use fresh clams instead of canned?
While fresh clams can be used, they will need to be cooked and chopped first, which adds time to the preparation. Canned smoked clams offer a convenient and flavorful option that enhances the spread's taste. If you prefer fresh, ensure they are well-cleaned and cooked properly before adding.
How can I make this spread spicier?
To add a kick, incorporate hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the mixture before blending. You can also experiment with adding finely chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for additional heat. Adjust to your taste for the perfect spicy clam-cheese spread.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?
For a vegetarian version, omit the clams and consider adding finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for texture and flavor. You can also incorporate diced vegetables like bell peppers or artichokes for a unique twist. This will change the flavor profile but still create a delicious 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).