Lunch / Dinner
Steamed Clams with Pancetta & Scallions
There’s nothing like fresh clams. Beyond being delicious, they’re one of our most sustainable seafood sources. Plus, clams are low in fat, high in protein, contain above average amounts of healthy minerals, and are a good source of Omega-3s. It just seems right that summer is their season — the sand is warm and ready for digging.
Working with fresh clams shouldn’t be intimidating. For this recipe you want tender, sweet littleneck clams. Because the clams are alive when you buy them, toss any with open or broken shells, an indication they’re dead. Store them on ice, then before using, place the clams in a bowl of cold water, scrub each one, and give a final rinse in a colander. And no fancy preparation is necessary. Simply steaming the clams in wine and broth with a side of crispy, buttery bread yields the most delectable dinner.
Ingredients
COOK:
ADD:
OFF HEAT, STIR:
Test Kitchen Tip
For the best texture, buy a chunk of pancetta, then dice it yourself. Ask for it at the deli counter.
Instructions
Cook pancetta in a large pot over medium-low heat until crisp; transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate and pour off all but 2 Tbsp. drippings.
Sauté scallion whites and light greens, garlic, and pepper flakes in drippings over medium-high heat until fragrant, 1–2 minutes.
Add wine and clam juice; bring to a boil. Add clams, cover, and cook, shaking pot occasionally, until clams open, 10–15 minutes. Discard any clams that do not pen. Using a slotted spoon, divide clams among four bowls.
Off heat, stir butter into broth. Divide broth among bowls; garnish with scallion greens and pancetta.
Store clams in the refrigerator in a colander set inside a bowl of ice, loosely covered with a damp towel.
To keep the clams from becoming rubbery as they cook, remove them as they open. It’s OK to lift the lid.
Nutritional Facts
Nutritional Facts
Per serving
Calories: 643
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 19g 29%
Saturated Fat 8g 40%
Cholesterol 174mg 57%
Sodium 3375mg 140%
Carbs 20g 6%
Fiber 0g 0%
Protein 72g
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.