Cream Cheese And Clams
Cream cheese and minced clams combined with lemon and Worcestershire create a rich, tangy spread perfect for serving on rye crackers and impressing seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the broiler.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, lemon juice, and Worcestershire or horseradish.
- Stir in the minced clams until well mixed.
- Spread the mixture onto rye bread rounds.
- Place under the broiler for about 2 minutes until lightly golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like dill or chives to the mixture. If you don't have rye bread, you can substitute with any crusty bread or crackers. To enhance the dish, try adding a dash of hot sauce for some heat. If using fresh clams, ensure they are thoroughly cleaned and cooked before mixing in.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cream cheese and clam spreads as an appetizer at your next gathering, alongside a fresh salad or vegetable platter. They pair beautifully with a chilled glass of white wine or even a light beer. For a heartier meal, consider serving with Baked Salmon Turnovers or a seafood salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place under the broiler for a minute or two to warm through, ensuring the bread remains crispy. Avoid using a microwave as it can make the bread soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese And Clams contains roughly 307 calories, with 7g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 631mg per serving (27% 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 make sure to steam and mince them before mixing with the other ingredients. Fresh clams will give a more vibrant flavor to the dish.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a vegan cream cheese alternative. Both will give a similar creaminess while altering the flavor slightly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate minced jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce into the mixture. Alternatively, consider using horseradish sauce instead of Worcestershire for a bolder kick.
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).