Steamed Clams with Garlic, Lemon, and Parsley
This easy steamed clams recipe is full of fresh flavor! Tender clams are cooked with garlic, lemon, and parsley in a light savory broth for an elegant seafood dish. Perfect as an appetizer, or served with pasta or crusty bread for dinner.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2–4
Ingredients:
2 lbs (900g) fresh clams (Manila or littleneck), scrubbed and rinsed
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
Juice of 1 lemon (plus wedges for serving)
Zest of ½ lemon
¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Crusty bread, for dipping
Instructions:
1. Rinse and scrub clams under cold water. Discard any that are cracked or do not close when tapped.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Add clams, cover with a lid, and steam for 5–7 minutes, shaking the pot occasionally, until clams open. Discard any that stay closed.
4. Stir in fresh lemon juice, zest, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Transfer to a serving bowl with the broth. Pair with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful garlic and lemon sauce.
Tips & Variations:
Add a splash of cream for a creamy garlic clam sauce.
Toss steamed clams with linguine for an Italian-style seafood pasta.
Always choose super fresh clams they should smell clean and briny, like the sea.
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