Littlenecks Steamed In Garlic And Oil
A flavorful seafood dish featuring tender littleneck clams steamed with garlic, onions, and white wine, perfect for seafood lovers and suitable for a quick, elegant meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse the clams in cold water.
- Preheat a large steaming pot and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Saute chopped onions and minced garlic in the oil for 60 seconds.
- Add water or white wine to the pot.
- Add the cleaned clams to the pot and season with salt, pepper, and parsley to taste.
- Cover and steam on high heat for 6 to 10 minutes or until the clams open.
- Serve the clams with melted butter and broth.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions and garlic. If you don’t have white wine, chicken broth can be a good substitute. Make sure to use fresh clams, as they should be tightly closed before cooking. Discard any that remain open after rinsing. For a richer broth, add a splash of lemon juice before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the clams in a large bowl with the flavorful broth for dipping. Pair with crusty bread to soak up the juices, and consider a side salad for freshness. This dish also pairs beautifully with Lynn'S Shrimp Dip for a delightful seafood spread at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover clams can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently in a steamer or a covered pan with a splash of water to prevent them from becoming rubbery. Avoid reheating in the microwave for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Littlenecks Steamed In Garlic And Oil contains roughly 187 calories, with 1g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 565mg per serving (25% 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
How do I know if the clams are fresh?
Fresh clams should have tightly closed shells. If any are open, tap them lightly; they should close up. Discard any that do not close as they may be dead and unsafe to eat.
Can I use different types of clams for this recipe?
Yes, while littleneck clams are ideal, you can substitute with other varieties like Manila or steamers. Just ensure they are fresh and adjust the cooking time if necessary, as larger clams may take longer to open.
What can I serve with the steamed clams?
Steamed clams are great on their own or served with melted butter. Consider pairing them with a light pasta, a fresh green salad, or even a hearty seafood spread like Crab Dip(Blue Label) for an impressive meal.
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).