Clam Paste(Dip)
Clam Paste is a creamy, tangy dip with a savory seafood flavor, perfect for serving with chips or crackers at parties and gatherings. Its rich cream cheese base is enhanced by minced clams, lemon juice, and a hint of horseradish, making it a flavorful and crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese in a medium-sized mixing bowl at room temperature.
- Add the drained minced clams, lemon juice, steak sauce, grated onion, catsup, horseradish, salt, and pepper to the softened cream cheese.
- Mix all ingredients well until smooth and combined.
- Serve with chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, blend the cream cheese and clams in a food processor. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or using spicy steak sauce. If you don’t have minced clams, canned tuna can be a substitute, although it will alter the flavor. This dip is also excellent served warm, just heat it in a microwave-safe dish for a couple of minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this clam paste with a variety of chips, like tortilla or pita chips, for dipping. It also complements fresh vegetable sticks, such as carrots and celery. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a light beer for a delightful appetizer experience. For more dip ideas, browse more American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover clam paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Avoid overheating to maintain the creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Clam Paste(Dip) contains roughly 32 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 775mg per serving (34% 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 make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dip a day in advance. Just mix all ingredients and store it in the refrigerator. It allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste. Just give it a good stir before serving.
Can I use fresh clams instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh clams. However, you'll need to cook and chop them beforehand. Fresh clams will provide a different texture and flavor, so adjust the seasoning accordingly to balance the dish.
What can I serve alongside this dip?
This clam paste pairs beautifully with a variety of snacks. Consider serving it with crusty bread, crackers, or even as a spread in sandwiches. It also makes a great topping for baked potatoes.
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).