Baked Clams with Lemon Herb Garlic Butter

Baked Clams with Lemon Herb Garlic Butter

This crunchy taste of the sea lets summer linger longer.

Prep time: 15 minutes  |  Cook time: 20 minutes  |  Serves: 4 as a starter

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Soak the clams in a bowl of cold, salted water for 20–30 minutes to release any grit, then scrub the shells clean under running water.

  2. Steam the clams, covered, over medium-high heat until they open, about 7 minutes. Discard any that stay closed. Set clams, shell side down, on a sheet pan.

  3. For the topping, mix panko or breadcrumbs with the softened Lemon Herb Garlic Butter until evenly combined.

  4. Spoon the topping onto each clam, pressing gently to help it adhere.

  5. Bake at 425°F until golden and crunchy, about 12 minutes.

  6. Season with a little salt and pepper if needed, and serve hot with lemon wedges and a scattering of parsley.

Tips: Ask your fishmonger for littlenecks or cherrystones for this recipe. The clams can be steamed and topped a few hours ahead, then refrigerated and baked just before serving.