Are you a seafood lover looking for new and exciting ways to prepare clam meat? Look no further! Clams are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes, from classic comfort foods to international-inspired meals. In this article, we’ll explore 18 savory clam meat recipes that are sure to please even the most discerning palate.
From creamy risottos and rich chowders to spicy stir-fries and flavorful pizzas, our list includes something for everyone. Whether you’re a long-time fan of clams or just looking to try something new, these recipes are sure to inspire your next meal.
Garlic Butter Clam Pasta
This rich and flavorful pasta dish combines succulent clams with a decadent garlic butter sauce, perfect for a cozy night in. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (250ml) white wine
– 1/4 cup (60ml) clam juice
– 1 pound (450g) clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add white wine and clam juice. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until liquid is reduced by half.
4. Add clams and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they open.
5. Combine cooked pasta and garlic butter sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
New England Clam Chowder
Warm up with a classic New England Clam Chowder that’s rich in flavor and simplicity. This recipe is a staple of the region, made with fresh clams, potatoes, onions, and cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups clam juice
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add clams, flour, clam juice, milk, and potatoes. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to low and cook for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spicy Thai Clam Stir-Fry
This spicy clam stir-fry recipe is a flavorful and quick-cooking dish that combines the brininess of clams with the bold flavors of Thailand. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 12 clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon palm sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
3. Add clams, curry paste, bell peppers, fish sauce, lime juice, and palm sugar; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Clam and Corn Fritters
These crispy fritters are packed with tender clams, sweet corn, and a hint of onion, making them the perfect appetizer or snack for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup clams, chopped (fresh or canned)
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add melted butter, clams, corn, and onion to the dry mixture. Mix well.
3. Beat in eggs until just combined.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the clam mixture into the oil, about 1/4 cup each.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes (depending on frying time).
White Wine Steamed Clams
A classic coastal dish that’s perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds clams, scrubbed clean
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the clams under cold water and set them aside.
2. In a large saucepan or steamer basket, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer.
5. Arrange the clams on top of the wine mixture, leaving a little room between each clam.
6. Cover the saucepan or steamer basket with a lid and steam the clams over boiling water for 3-5 minutes, or until they open.
7. Serve the clams hot, accompanied by lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Clam and Bacon Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this decadent recipe featuring succulent clams, crispy bacon, and earthy mushrooms. A perfect combination for a crowd-pleasing snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly shucked clams, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté the diced bacon until crispy. Remove from heat.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together chopped clams, minced garlic, and cooked bacon.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the clam-bacon mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Clam Risotto
Savor the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with this creamy clam risotto, a decadent and comforting dish perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups fish stock, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add wine (if using); cook until absorbed.
4. Add warmed fish stock, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. When rice is cooked, stir in butter and Parmesan cheese. Add clams; cook until shells open.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Clam and Chorizo Paella
Experience the bold flavors of Spain with this Clam and Chorizo Paella recipe, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Spanish rice (Calasparra or Bomba)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 pound chorizo, sliced
– 1 can of clams (6.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chorizo; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add the clams, chicken broth, saffron mixture, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the rice; stir to coat with the liquid and distribute evenly.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Clam Meat Stuffed Bell Peppers
Experience the harmonious fusion of sweet bell peppers and savory clam meat in this delightful recipe!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound fresh or canned clam meat (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together clam meat, breadcrumbs, olive oil, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the clam mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
7. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of bell peppers during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Linguine with Clams and Lemon Butter Sauce
A classic seafood dish that’s simple yet impressive, this linguine recipe combines the brininess of clams with the brightness of lemon butter sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound linguine pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 12 ounces freshly shucked clams (about 3 cups)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add clams, lemon juice, and white wine (if using). Cover the skillet and cook until clams are open, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Stir in reserved pasta cooking liquid to create a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked linguine and clam mixture. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Clam and Potato Hash
A savory and satisfying side dish or light meal, this Clam and Potato Hash combines the brininess of clams with the comfort of crispy potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound small red potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 1 can (6.5 oz) minced clams, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with butter, chives, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the potato mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
4. While potatoes are roasting, heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add clams and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they start to open.
5. Combine roasted potatoes and cooked clams in the skillet. Toss gently to combine. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Clam Meat Pizza with Garlic and Herbs
Elevate your pizza game with this flavorful combination of fresh clams, garlic, and herbs. This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers looking for a unique twist on traditional pizza.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup clam meat (fresh or canned)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread olive oil over dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Top with clam meat, garlic, oregano, and parsley.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Clam and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this unique and delicious twist on traditional stuffed shells, combining the brininess of clams with the earthy flavor of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound large clams, rinsed and drained
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine clams, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg; mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the clam-spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the shells and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pan-Fried Clam Cakes
Experience the coastal flavors of New England with this classic pan-fried clam cakes recipe. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with fresh clams and herbs, these bites are perfect for a casual dinner or appetizer.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound fresh clams, rinsed and chopped
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chopped clams, panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and egg to the bowl. Mix until just combined.
4. Using wet hands, shape the mixture into 8-10 clam cakes.
5. Cook the clam cakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Clam and Shrimp Scampi
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this classic Italian seafood dish, featuring succulent clams and shrimp in a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 2 cups freshly shelled clams
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons white wine
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic; cook 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add clams and shrimp to the skillet. Cook 2-3 minutes or until clams open and shrimp turn pink.
4. Add white wine and lemon juice to the skillet. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
5. Stir in reserved pasta water and cook until sauce thickens slightly, about 1 minute.
6. Combine cooked linguine with clam and shrimp mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Clam Meat Tacos with Lime Crema
These flavorful tacos combine the freshness of lime crema with the brininess of clam meat, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh clams, rinsed and scrubbed
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime crema (see below)
– Chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and salt for garnish
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon zest
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add clams to the skillet and cook until they open, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning clam mixture onto tortillas and topping with lime crema, cilantro, and salt.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Clam and Sausage Jambalaya
Get ready for a flavorful twist on the classic Louisiana dish! This spicy clam and sausage jambalaya combines succulent clams, savory sausage, and aromatic spices for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp-clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups cooked white rice
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add clams, diced tomatoes, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
5. Stir to combine; cover skillet.
6. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until clams are cooked through.
7. Serve over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Clam Meat Fried Rice
A flavorful twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines savory clam meat with aromatic spices and vegetables for a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup clam meat (fresh or canned)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked clam meat; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Stir-fry the rice mixture for about 5 minutes, until heated through and slightly crispy at the bottom.
7. Season with soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the brininess of clams with these 18 savory clam meat recipes. From classic comfort food to international flavors, this collection has something for every seafood lover. Try garlic butter clam pasta, New England clam chowder, or spicy Thai clam stir-fry for a taste adventure. Other highlights include clam and corn fritters, white wine steamed clams, and creamy clam risotto. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty casserole or a quick weeknight dinner, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
