Imagine a dish so luxurious and simple that it captures the essence of coastal Italian cuisine in just 25 minutes. These Steamed Clams in a White Wine Butter Garlic Broth are not just a meal—they're a culinary journey that will make your taste buds dance and transport you to a charming seaside restaurant overlooking the Mediterranean. With a perfect balance of succulent clams, rich buttery sauce, and aromatic white wine, this recipe is about to become your new go-to seafood indulgence.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh clams
- 1 cup white wine
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by cleaning the clams thoroughly. Place them in a large bowl of cold water and let them soak for about 20 minutes. This helps to remove any sand or grit. After soaking, scrub the clams under running water to ensure they are clean. Discard any clams that are open and do not close when tapped.
- In a large pot or deep skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Allow the butter to foam and then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor.
- Once the garlic is fragrant, pour in 1 cup of white wine. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow the wine to reduce for about 2-3 minutes, which will concentrate the flavors.
- After the wine has reduced slightly, add the cleaned clams to the pot. Stir to coat the clams in the garlic and wine mixture. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the clams for about 5-7 minutes, or until they have opened up. Discard any clams that remain closed after cooking.
- Once the clams are cooked, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the chopped parsley and season the broth with salt and pepper to taste. Be careful with the salt, as the clams can add some natural saltiness to the dish.
- To serve, ladle the clams and broth into bowls. You can garnish with additional parsley if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful broth.
- Enjoy your Steamed Clams in a White Wine Butter Garlic Broth with a glass of the same white wine used in the recipe for a delightful dining experience.
Tips
- Clam Cleaning is Crucial: Always thoroughly clean your clams to remove sand. The 20-minute cold water soak is non-negotiable for a grit-free experience.
- Fresh is Best: Use the freshest clams possible. Look for tightly closed shells and a fresh, ocean-like smell.
- Wine Selection Matters: Choose a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc that you'd enjoy drinking. The flavor will concentrate in your broth.
- Don't Overcook: Clams cook quickly. Once they open, they're done. Overcooked clams become rubbery and tough.
- Bread is Your Friend: Have crusty bread ready to soak up that incredible garlic-wine broth. It's liquid gold!
- Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley isn't just decoration—it adds a bright, fresh note to the rich, buttery dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 120mg
