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If you’re craving a quick, delicious seafood dish that bursts with flavor, these Spicy Butter Clams are the perfect choice. In just about 20 minutes, you’ll have tender, juicy clams bathed in a rich, buttery sauce infused with garlic, chili, and fresh herbs. This recipe is incredibly simple yet delivers a restaurant-quality experience right in your own kitchen.
Clams naturally bring a wonderful briny sweetness, and when simmered in a spicy garlic butter sauce, they become irresistible. This dish is great for a speedy weeknight meal but elegant enough for a dinner party or special occasion.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve these clams with warm crusty bread or steamed rice to soak up every drop of that luscious sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Fast & Easy: Ready in 20 minutes from start to finish.
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Flavor-Packed: Garlic, chili, and butter create an irresistible sauce.
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Minimal Ingredients: Pantry staples come together beautifully.
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Healthy & Light: Low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with protein.
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Impressive & Elegant: Perfect for both casual dinners and entertaining.
Ingredients
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2 pounds (900g) fresh clams (littleneck or Manila clams work best)
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter
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5 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small red chili or ½ teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to heat preference)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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½ cup low-sodium vegetable or seafood broth (or water)
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Juice of half a lemon
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Optional: pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky depth
Equipment Needed
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Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Small bowl for mixing lemon juice and herbs
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Serving bowl or dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Clean the Clams
Before cooking, it’s important to clean your clams properly to remove any sand or grit. Soak the clams in a large bowl of cold salted water (about 2 tablespoons salt per quart) for 20-30 minutes. This encourages them to expel sand. Rinse thoroughly under cold running water.
Discard any clams that are cracked or remain open after tapping — these are not safe to eat.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Chili
Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted and shimmering, add minced garlic and chili (sliced fresh chili or chili flakes). Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
Step 3: Add Clams and Broth
Add the cleaned clams to the skillet and pour in the broth. Immediately cover with a tight-fitting lid to trap steam. Let the clams cook for about 6-8 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally to redistribute them. The clams will steam open as they cook.
Step 4: Check Clams and Finish the Sauce
Remove the lid and check if all clams have opened. Discard any that remain closed. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan and squeeze in fresh lemon juice. Stir gently to melt the butter into a silky sauce.
Season with salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika if using. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for freshness and color.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Transfer the clams and sauce to a serving bowl. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Pro Tips for Perfect Spicy Butter Clams
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Fresh Clams Are Key: Always choose fresh, live clams. They should smell like the sea, not fishy.
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Don’t Overcook: Clams only need to steam until they open, about 6-8 minutes. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
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Adjust Heat: Use fresh chili or chili flakes to control the spice level. Mild or intense, it’s up to you.
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Save the Sauce: Don’t forget the buttery sauce—serve with bread or rice to enjoy every drop.
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Cleaning is Essential: Properly soak and scrub clams to avoid gritty bites.
Variations & Add-Ons
Creamy Butter Clams
Add a splash of heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Garlic Herb Explosion
Increase garlic and add fresh thyme or basil for an herbal punch.
Tomato Butter Clams
Stir in diced tomatoes or a spoonful of tomato paste for a tangy twist.
Spicy Coconut Butter Clams
Swap out half the broth for coconut milk for a subtle tropical flavor with spice.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with toasted baguette or sourdough to mop up the sauce.
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Pair with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
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Add steamed jasmine or basmati rice for a comforting meal.
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Complement with roasted vegetables or a light pasta dish.
Storage and Leftover Tips
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Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
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Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid toughening the clams.
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Avoid reheating in the microwave as it can make clams rubbery and sauce separate.
Nutrition Benefits of Clams
Clams are a powerhouse of nutrients, rich in high-quality protein, low in fat, and an excellent source of iron, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids. This recipe keeps them healthy and delicious without heavy sauces or excessive salt.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen clams for this recipe?
Fresh clams are best for texture and flavor, but frozen clams can be used if thawed and cooked gently.
How do I know if the clams are cooked?
Clams open up when cooked through. Discard any that remain closed after cooking.
Can I make this recipe less spicy?
Absolutely! Reduce or omit the chili flakes or fresh chili to suit your taste.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just serve with gluten-free bread if needed.
What can I substitute for butter?
You can use olive oil only for a dairy-free version, but the sauce won’t be as rich.
Final Thoughts
These Spicy Butter Clams are an easy yet elegant dish that combines the natural sweetness of fresh clams with the warmth of garlic, butter, and chili heat. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, they are perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests without stress.
The key to success is fresh clams, careful cooking, and serving immediately with something to soak up the luscious sauce. Whether you’re a seafood lover or exploring new dinner ideas, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
