Steamed Clams with Spring Herbs & Lime
This quick and flavorful dinner recipe showcases tender littleneck clams steamed with aromatic green garlic, fresh herbs, and a citrusy lime-infused broth. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal, the dish features a sweet and herbal broth ideal for dipping bread or enjoying by the spoonful.
Equipment
- Large straight-sided skillet or medium pot with lid
- Slotted spoon or tongs
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 stalks green garlic or 2 regular garlic cloves thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon or basil leaves
- 30 littleneck clams about 2½ pounds, scrubbed
- ¼ cup minced fresh chives
- Finely grated zest of 1 lime
- Pinch of red chile flakes
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1½ tablespoons fresh lime juice
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium pot or a large skillet with straight sides, ensuring it has a lid. Place over medium heat and add the sliced garlic along with the tarragon or basil. Cook gently until the garlic becomes soft and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Cook the Clams: Add the scrubbed clams to the pot and cover it with the lid. Let the clams steam until their shells open, which should take about 5 to 10 minutes. Discard any clams that remain closed after cooking.
- Prepare the Sauce: Using a slotted spoon or tongs, divide the cooked clams into two serving bowls. To the pot with the remaining liquid, add the minced chives, lime zest, and a pinch of red chile flakes. Stir these ingredients and let them cook for about 20 seconds. Then, add the butter and lime juice, whisking until the butter is fully melted and the sauce becomes slightly thickened.
- Serve Immediately: Pour the sauce over the clams in each bowl, ensuring each serving gets a generous portion of the flavorful broth. Serve while hot, and enjoy with crusty bread for dipping or simply savor as is.
Notes
- Ensure clams are properly scrubbed and rinsed to remove any sand or grit.
- Green garlic adds a mild, sweet garlic flavor; substitute with regular garlic if unavailable.
- For added spice, increase the amount of red chile flakes.
- Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful broth.
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