Minced Clam Dip
A savory and cheesy clam dip with vibrant green peppers and aromatic herbs, perfect for entertaining or as an appetizer. The combination of minced clams, bread crumbs, and melted cheddar creates a rich, flavorful dish that pairs well with crackers, bread, or vegetable sticks. Ideal for seafood lovers and party hosts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute the minced clams for 10 minutes and save the juice.
- Saute the diced green pepper and onion in margarine for 10 minutes, adding lemon to taste.
- Combine the cooked clams, sautéed vegetables, and add 1 cup bread crumbs.
- Season the mixture with parsley and oregano.
- Mix well, top with shredded Cheddar cheese, and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dip, consider adding cream cheese or sour cream to the mixture. Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor, so feel free to substitute dried parsley and oregano with fresh if available. If you're short on time, pre-packaged breadcrumbs can save you some prep work. Also, using garlic powder can add an extra layer of flavor, perfect for seafood recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Minced Clam Dip with a variety of dippers like toasted baguette slices, tortilla chips, or fresh vegetable sticks for a colorful platter. It pairs beautifully with Baked Crab Casserole as part of a seafood-themed spread. For an added touch, garnish with additional parsley or a sprinkle of paprika before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dip in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick snacks.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Minced Clam Dip contains roughly 230 calories, with 8g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (136% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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?
Absolutely! If you're using fresh clams, steam them until they open, then chop them finely and reserve the juices. This will give your dip a fresher taste, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.
How can I make this dip spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the clam mixture. You can also incorporate cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that complements the seafood flavor well.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed. This can also enhance the flavors, making it a great option for gatherings.
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).