Zippy Clam Dip
A creamy, zesty clam dip with fresh herbs and a hint of horseradish, perfect for entertaining or casual snacking with chips or crackers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the minced clams and reserve the liquid. If necessary, add milk to make 3 tablespoons of liquid.
- Add the minced clams to the softened cream cheese and beat until smooth.
- Stir in the minced parsley, onion, lemon juice, horseradish, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dip, consider blending in a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt. If you don't have horseradish, a dab of Dijon mustard can work as a substitute. Fresh herbs like dill or chives can also elevate the flavor. Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing, and don't skip chilling the dip as it enhances the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this zippy clam dip with an assortment of crackers or fresh vegetable sticks for a delightful appetizer. It also pairs beautifully with Party Sandwiches(Tuna Filling) for a casual gathering. For a more substantial spread, consider adding a light salad or a side of toasted bread for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, you can warm it gently in the microwave, but avoid overheating to keep the texture smooth. Alternatively, serve it cold as a refreshing dip.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zippy Clam Dip contains roughly 33 calories, with 2g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (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 steam them open and chop them before adding to the cream cheese. Make sure to reserve some of the clam juice to achieve the right consistency. Fresh clams will add a wonderful flavor to the dip.
Is there a way to make this dip spicier?
Absolutely! You can add a dash of hot sauce or some finely chopped jalapeños to the mix for an extra kick. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference, and taste as you go to ensure it complements the other flavors.
How long should I chill the dip before serving?
Chilling the dip for at least two hours is recommended to allow the flavors to meld together. However, if you're short on time, even a 30-minute chill can enhance the taste. Just keep in mind that longer chilling times yield a more balanced 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).