Quick Mediterranean-Style Steamed Clams Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Succulent clams dance with Mediterranean-style aromatics, promising a seafood experience that transports you straight to coastal shores.

Briny shellfish mingle with fragrant herbs and white wine, creating a simple yet elegant dish.

Tender clams open like delicate flowers, releasing their rich, oceanic essence.

Fresh garlic and parsley add vibrant layers of flavor to this classic preparation.

Each bite whispers stories of sun-drenched Mediterranean beaches and rustic seaside kitchens.

The recipe combines minimal ingredients with maximum impact, ensuring a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Prepare to be enchanted by this seafood masterpiece that celebrates the pure, clean flavors of the sea.

Clam Steaming Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot: Essential for simmering broth and steaming clams.
• Cutting board: For chopping vegetables and herbs.
• Sharp knife: To precisely slice onions, peppers, and garlic.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and sautéing vegetables.
• Colander: Helps rinse and drain clams thoroughly.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate wine and water quantities.
• Tongs: Great for handling and serving opened clams.

Steps to Steamed Clams with Mediterranean Flair

Step 1: Purge and Cleanse Clams

Rinse clams under cold running water.

Scrub shells thoroughly to remove any sand or debris.

Soak clams in a large bowl of salted water for about 20 minutes to help them expel any remaining grit.

Drain and repeat the soaking process two more times to ensure they are completely clean.

Step 2: Prepare Aromatic Base

Heat olive oil in a large wide pot or deep skillet.

• Onions
• Bell peppers
• Garlic

Sauté until vegetables become soft and fragrant, releasing their sweet and savory notes.

Step 3: Create Flavorful Liquid Foundation

• Diced tomatoes
• White wine
• Water
• Dried oregano
• Red pepper flakes
• Salt
• Black pepper

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld and develop a rich, aromatic broth.

Step 4: Steam Succulent Clams

Carefully add cleaned clams to the simmering liquid.

Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.

Cook for 7-10 minutes, or until all clams have opened completely.

Discard any clams that remain closed after cooking.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Parsley
• Basil

Transfer to a large serving platter.

Accompany with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious broth.

Serve immediately while hot and steaming.

Pro Advice for Tender, Juicy Clams

• Soak clams in cold saltwater multiple times to remove sand and grit, ensuring a clean, fresh seafood experience.
• Select live, tightly closed clams with no cracks or damage, guaranteeing the best flavor and texture.
• Steam clams precisely 7-10 minutes to prevent rubbery texture, discarding any that don't open during cooking.
• Use dry white wine like pinot grigio or sauvignon blanc to enhance broth's depth without overpowering delicate clam flavor.
• Toast crusty bread and rub with garlic for extra flavor, perfect for soaking up the aromatic Mediterranean-style broth.

Clam Dish Mix Ins and Add Ons

• Spicy Seafood Fusion: Replace wine with coconut milk and add Thai red curry paste for a Southeast Asian kick.
• Low-Sodium Version: Substitute salt with fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary, using low-sodium vegetable broth instead of water.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Serve with gluten-free quinoa bread or rice crackers to maintain the crispy accompaniment.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Swap clams with king oyster mushrooms, mimicking seafood texture while keeping Mediterranean flavor profile.

Ways to Serve Steamed Clams with Sides

• Seaside Feast Platter: Arrange steamed clams on a large wooden board with crusty bread, lemon wedges, and fresh herbs for a stunning Mediterranean-style presentation.
• Wine Pairing Delight: Serve with crisp white wines like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc that complement the briny clam flavors and light tomato broth.
• Rustic Dipping Experience: Use warm crusty bread to soak up the rich, flavorful broth, creating an interactive and delicious dining moment for guests to enjoy the full depth of Mediterranean flavors.
• Fresh Herb Garnish: Sprinkle generous amounts of chopped parsley, basil, or oregano over the clams just before serving to add bright, aromatic notes and enhance the dish's visual appeal.

Storing Steamed Clams After Cooking

• Store leftover clams in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them in the broth to retain moisture. Consume within 1-2 days for best quality and safety.
• Carefully transfer clams and broth to a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion. Freeze up to 2 months, ensuring minimal air contact to prevent freezer burn.
• Gently warm clams in a covered pan over low heat, stirring occasionally to distribute heat evenly. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
• Reheat in short 30-second intervals at 50% power, checking frequently to avoid overcooking. Stir between intervals to ensure even heating and prevent rubbery texture.

FAQs

• How do I know if the clams are fresh?

Look for closed shells or shells that close when tapped. Discard any clams with cracked shells or that remain open after tapping.

• Can I substitute the wine in the recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken broth or seafood stock as alternatives. Non-alcoholic white wine also works well.

• What type of clams work best for this recipe?

Littleneck or manila clams are ideal. They’re small, tender, and cook quickly. Ensure they’re fresh and sourced from reliable seafood markets.

• Is it safe to eat clams that didn't open during cooking?

No, discard any clams that remain closed after steaming. Closed shells after cooking might indicate the clam was dead before cooking and could be unsafe to eat.

Mediterranean Steamed Clams Why They’re Elegant

• This Mediterranean-style steamed clams recipe delivers a burst of vibrant, fresh flavors that transport you straight to coastal cuisine with minimal effort.
• Perfect for home chefs seeking a restaurant-quality dish that comes together in just a few simple steps, making gourmet cooking accessible and enjoyable.
• Ideal for intimate dinners, weekend gatherings, or impressive date nights, this recipe adapts beautifully to various occasions and impresses guests with its elegant simplicity.
• Packed with lean protein, nutrient-rich seafood, and aromatic vegetables, this dish offers a nutritious meal that doesn't compromise on taste or excitement.

Ingredients for Steamed Clams Mediterranean Style

• Clams: Fresh saltwater shellfish that are the star of this Mediterranean-style dish.
• Tomatoes: Ripe and juicy base that adds richness and depth to the broth.
• Olive Oil: Classic Mediterranean cooking fat that provides a smooth, rich flavor.

• Onions, Garlic, Peppers: Foundational vegetables that create a robust and fragrant base for the dish.
• White Wine: Adds complexity and acidity to the cooking liquid.
• Herbs: Fresh ingredients that brighten and enhance the overall flavor profile.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate the natural flavors of the clams and vegetables.
• Spices: Additional flavor enhancers that give the dish its Mediterranean character.

Mediterranean-Style Steamed Clams Recipe

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4.9 from 39 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mediterranean-style Steamed Clams invite seafood enthusiasts on a culinary journey through coastal flavors. Succulent clams simmered in white wine, garlic, and herbs create an authentic Mediterranean dining experience you’ll savor with each delightful bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 3 pounds littleneck clams
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 1 1/2 cups water

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 1/2 green pepper, chopped
• 1/2 red pepper, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 green onion, chopped
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• salt
• pepper

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Instructions

1. Thoroughly rinse clams under cold water, removing any debris or sand. Submerge in heavily salted water, gently scrubbing shells to eliminate grit. Repeat cleansing process three times to ensure pristine shellfish.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté finely chopped onions and bell peppers until softened and translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, releasing aromatic flavors.
3. Pour diced tomatoes into the skillet, incorporating Mediterranean spices like oregano and red pepper flakes. Deglaze with crisp white wine, allowing alcohol to evaporate. Introduce a splash of water and simmer the broth for 8-10 minutes, developing rich, complex flavors.
4. Carefully nestle cleaned clams into the simmering broth, ensuring they are partially submerged. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and steam at medium-high heat until shells dramatically pop open, approximately 6-8 minutes. Discard any clams that remain sealed after cooking.
5. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and basil over the steamed clams. Serve immediately in shallow bowls, accompanied by rustic, toasted bread for soaking up the fragrant broth.

Notes

• Ensure fresh clams are tightly closed before cooking, discarding any with cracked shells or that remain open after tapping.
• Use a white wine with crisp acidity to enhance the seafood’s natural flavors and create a more complex broth.
• For a gluten-free version, replace crusty bread with zucchini noodles or serve over cauliflower rice to maintain the Mediterranean style.
• Substitute clams with mussels or mixed shellfish if desired, adjusting cooking time slightly based on the seafood’s size and texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Steaming
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 650 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 16 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg