Clam Dabbies
Clam Dabbies are savory, crunchy appetizers featuring a creamy clam spread atop toasted rounds, perfect for seafood lovers and entertaining guests with a flavorful bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mash the Philadelphia cream cheese and blend with all ingredients except the clams.
- Drain the minced clams and add them to the mixture, blending well.
- Place Melba toast rounds on a cookie sheet and spread the clam mixture over each.
- Broil until the tops are lightly brown, about 2-3 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. If you're short on time, pre-chopped garlic or garlic powder can work as a quick alternative. When broiling, keep a close eye to avoid burning; using an oven-safe thermometer can help maintain the perfect cooking temperature. This dish is great for gatherings and pairs well with Appetizing Shrimp.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these clam dabbies as an appetizer at your next gathering, alongside a fresh Lemon Capri Salad to balance the richness. They also pair nicely with a crisp white wine. For a fun twist, offer a variety of toppings like chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon over the clam mixture.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover clam dabbies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them under the broiler for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the toast soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Clam Dabbies contains roughly 87 calories, with 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1041mg per serving (45% 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?
Yes, you can use fresh clams! Just ensure they are properly cleaned and cooked before adding them to the mixture. Fresh clams will provide a more robust flavor but require additional preparation time compared to canned clams.
What can I serve with clam dabbies?
Clam dabbies are best served as a standalone appetizer, but they can also be complemented with a light side salad, such as a Caesar or a simple mixed greens salad. Additionally, consider serving them with a refreshing dip or sauce for extra flavor.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, mix in a few dashes of hot sauce or finely chopped jalapeños to the clam mixture. You could also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before broiling to enhance the spiciness without altering the original flavor too much.
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).