Are you craving a quick, delicious, and healthy seafood dinner? Look no further! This chopped baked clams recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and delivers a burst of fresh, briny flavor that will impress everyone at the table. Forget complicated recipes; this one is all about simple ingredients and maximum taste. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds littleneck clams, scrubbed and rinsed thoroughly
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions:
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Prepare the Clams: Begin by thoroughly scrubbing the clams under cold running water to remove any sand or grit. Discard any clams that are broken or don't close when tapped.
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Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits. Let the wine simmer for a minute or two until slightly reduced.
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Add Clams and Simmer: Add the clams to the skillet, cover, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the clams open. Discard any clams that do not open.
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Stir in Flavor: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the chopped parsley, lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
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Serve Immediately: Serve the chopped baked clams hot, spooned over crusty bread for dipping. The briny juices make an incredible sauce.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chopped Baked Clams:
- Fresh Clams are Key: The quality of your clams will significantly impact the flavor of the dish. Buy the freshest clams you can find.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked clams will be tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they open.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them altogether.
- Wine Selection: Experiment with different dry white wines to find your favorite pairing.
Variations:
- Bacon Chopped Clams: Add 4 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon to the skillet along with the garlic and onion for extra richness and flavor.
- Spicy Clams: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Herby Clams: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, oregano, or chives.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, delicious, and satisfying seafood meal. It's a perfect example of how easy and flavorful homemade cooking can be. Enjoy!