Toasted Clam And Cheese Appetizers
Delicious toasted clam and cheese appetizers featuring savory chopped clams, melted cheddar, and creamy mayonnaise on crispy sourdough slices, perfect for entertaining or casual snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix chopped clams, grated Cheddar cheese, and mayonnaise in a large bowl.
- Spread the clam mixture evenly onto slices of sourdough bread.
- Place the prepared bread slices on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try adding a splash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños to the clam mixture for extra flavor. If you don't have sourdough bread, any crusty bread will work well. Additionally, you can substitute the Cheddar cheese with mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for a different taste. This is a great recipe for utilizing leftover clams from other seafood recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These toasted clam and cheese appetizers are perfect for entertaining. Serve them alongside a fresh salad or pair them with Vegetable Dip For Hot Vegetables for a delightful spread. They also complement a chilled white wine or beer beautifully. Consider serving them as part of a seafood-themed appetizer platter to impress your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the appetizers on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, until heated through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Toasted Clam And Cheese Appetizers contains roughly 595 calories, with 26g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (56% of the Daily Value), protein (53% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 923mg per serving (40% 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 them until they open, chop them finely, and drain any excess liquid before mixing them with the cheese and mayonnaise. This will give your appetizers a fresher taste and enhance their overall flavor.
How can I make these gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the sourdough bread with gluten-free bread options available at most grocery stores. Make sure all other ingredients, such as the canned clams and mayonnaise, are gluten-free certified to ensure the entire dish meets dietary needs.
Can I prepare these appetizers in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the clam mixture and spread it on the bread slices ahead of time. Assemble the appetizers and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before baking. Just remember to bake them right before serving for the best texture and flavor.
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).