Steamed Clams are a classic seafood dish that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly flavorful. This dish features small clams steamed in a broth made from white wine, butter, garlic, and Old Bay seasoning, creating a savory and aromatic experience. The addition of fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh note to the dish, making it perfect for a light meal or an appetizer. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, steamed clams are a must-try for any seafood lover.
Steamed Clams in Wine and Garlic
Steamed clams are a versatile and delightful dish known for their simplicity and rich flavors. The clams are cooked in a broth of white wine and butter, infused with garlic and Old Bay seasoning, which enhances their natural briny taste. This dish is not only quick to make but also impressive enough for special occasions. The clams’ tender texture and the flavorful broth make it a standout seafood recipe.
Want to know something really really weird?
I’ve lived in the Pacific Northwest for almost 20 years now, and I have never gone and dug clams.
We live in one of the richest areas in the world for fresh seafood, and I LOVE fresh seafood, yet I’ve never gone and harvested my very own clams. Crazy.
I NEED to remedy that, and be sure that when I do – you guys will hear all about it. I’ve got a really great clam linguine in mind, or maybe my mother-in-law’s famous clam chowder recipe that would be perfect with freshly dug clams.
Even if you can’t actually go out and dig your own clams, if you can get your hands on fresh clams then by all means – DO IT! We ordered these from Taylor Shellfish, which is my go-to for fresh clams and oysters.
Why you’ll love this dish…
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Flavorful Broth: The combination of white wine, butter, and garlic creates a rich and savory broth.
- Fresh and Aromatic: Fresh parsley adds a bright and fresh note.
- Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for gatherings or a romantic dinner for two.
- Versatile: Great as an appetizer or a main course when served with bread.
Get all of my Traeger Recipes here!
Steamed Clams shopping list
Wondering if you have to hit the store? Here’s the list of items you’ll need to make this recipe. For specific amounts, please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.
- Water
- White Wine
- Salted Butter
- Old Bay Garlic and Herb Seasoning
- Garlic
- Small Clams
- Fresh Parsley
- Fresh Lemon
How to make Steamed Clams with Garlic and Wine
Wondering what you’re getting yourself into when you make this dish? Here’s a quick overview of the process! Make sure you follow the instructions at the recipe card at the bottom of the post while you’re cooking.
- Prepare the Broth: In a medium pot, bring water, white wine, butter, Old Bay seasoning, and minced garlic to a simmer.
- Sort the Clams: Check and discard any dead or broken clams.
- Steam the Clams: Add the clams to the pot, cover, and steam for 10 minutes until they open.
- Check the Clams: Discard any clams that remain unopened.
- Serve: Serve hot with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
Have a Homemade Caesar Salad
FAQ
How should I store leftover steamed clams?
Store leftover clams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
It’s best to steam clams fresh. However, you can prepare the broth ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to add the clams.
What if I don’t have Old Bay seasoning?
You can substitute with a mix of paprika, celery salt, and black pepper for a similar flavor.
Are there variations to this recipe?
Yes, you can add other herbs like thyme or bay leaves, or include a splash of lemon juice for added brightness.
Serve with Traeger Garlic Bread!
Serve this with…
More great seafood recipes to love!
More Clams To Love
Garlic Steamed Clams
Garlic steamed clams are a delicious appetizer, or make them a meal! Don't be intimidated by these delicious shellfish.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 cups white wine
- 1 stick salted butter
- 2 teaspoons old bay garlic and herb seasoning
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 2 pounds small clams
- 2 tablespoons fresh minced parsley
Instructions
- Bring everything minus the clams to a simmer in a medium size pot.
- Sort through every clam and discard any that are dead or broken.
- Add the clams and cover. Steam clams for 10 minutes, or until they are popped open.
- Throw away any unopened clams.
- Serve hot with some crusty bread to soak up the juices.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 643Total Fat: 27gSaturated Fat: 15gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 213mgSodium: 3319mgCarbohydrates: 16gFiber: 0gSugar: 1gProtein: 59g
Nutrition data provided here is only an estimate. If you are tracking these things for medical purposes please consult an outside, trusted source. Thanks!
Nicole Johnson
Nicole Johnson, a self-taught expert in grilling and outdoor cooking, launched Or Whatever You Do in 2010. Her blog, renowned for its comprehensive and creative outdoor cooking recipes, has garnered a vast audience of millions. Nicole's hands-on experience and passion for grilling shine through her work. Her husband, Jeremiah Johnson, also plays a pivotal role in recipe development, adding his culinary flair to the mix. Together, they form a dynamic duo, offering a rich and varied outdoor cooking experience to their followers.
Patricia @ Grab a Plate
Monday 11th of May 2015
I just love clams and your recipe looks great -- and looks easy to make, too! Yum!
Nicole Johnson
Wednesday 13th of May 2015
Thanks, Patricia! It was really easy to make!
Laura @Petite Allergy Treats
Monday 11th of May 2015
I've always want to go clamming or crabbing. It just seems like fun 'hunting' for your dinner, right? These sound so great and fresh! Hope you had a great Mother's Day!
Nicole Johnson
Wednesday 13th of May 2015
Yesss!!! I can't wait to go! I'm scoping out local spots so we can go soon. I can't wait!
Stacey @ Bake.Eat.Repeat.
Monday 11th of May 2015
These clams look amazing! I love seafood, but have never cooked fresh clams before. Pretty sure I need to change that ASAP!
Nicole Johnson
Wednesday 13th of May 2015
It is really easy! I think I was intimidated by the fact that they are still alive. Same with live lobster. But it was really simple, and we'll definitely be making those again.
Laura at Creative Supergirl
Monday 11th of May 2015
This look delicious! I usually only have clams with pasta but I bet this is so yummy with a nice piece of crusty bread. I am going to definitely try this soon!
Nicole Johnson
Wednesday 13th of May 2015
Let me know what you think! I love a good bucket of clams.
Krista @ Joyful Healthy Eats
Monday 11th of May 2015
Sounds incredible! I've ben made clams at home but you make them look so easy! Trying!
Nicole Johnson
Wednesday 13th of May 2015
Thanks, Krista!! You should definitely try it!