All Clams on Deck – For Dinner!
Photo courtesy of Angela Collins
Shellfish aquaculture is an important growing industry in Florida as it provides economic benefit and sustainable and healthy sources of protein for people.
Bivalves (e.g., clams and oysters) are a heart healthy food, and provide a nutrient rich, low-calorie meat option. They are an excellent source of protein and are high in iron, calcium, and vitamin B. Clams are also loaded with Omega-3s, essential building blocks for a healthy body.
As clams filter feed, they remove nitrogen, sequester atmospheric carbon, and increase water clarity. Shellfish farms have been linked to improved water conditions in many coastal systems …so eating clams is not only good for you – it’s good for the planet, too!
Seafood is synonymous with a good Florida meal, and many local reputable restaurants offer a variety of delicious shellfish options. But did you know that you can also cook your clams at home? A lot of people tell me that they don’t know how to prepare clams – which is just crazy! Florida Sea Grant Seafood at your Fingertips promotes tasty, sustainable, easy recipes that anyone can recreate in their kitchen.
Cookout Clams have become one of our favorite recipes. We share them as a fun appetizer with friends during a backyard BBQ, or pair them with crusty bread and a fresh salad for an easy meal.
Check out our cooking demonstration for these delicious Cookout Clams online, or just follow the recipe below. It doesn’t get much easier than this! And you can feel good about your choice to support local shellfish growers while creating a healthy and environmentally friendly meal.
The easiest way to cook the clams is to put them in a grill safe pan and grill over medium heat until the shells pop open! Easy!
For the clams:
1 – 2 lbs. of littlneck or middleneck hard clams (about 25 – 50 clams)
For dipping:
1/3 cup Olive oil
2 – 4 cloves chopped Garlic
1/2 Tbs. Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp. Red pepper flakes
1/2 Tbs. chopped chives
I recommend pairing these clams with a loaf of crusty bread (French or sourdough) and a fresh green salad. Dinner is DONE!