Like a baked clam but with a bit more flavor.
Clams Casino is a timeless appetizer that combines the briny sweetness of clams with a savory topping of bacon, bell peppers, and buttery breadcrumbs. This dish is perfect for entertaining, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors that will impress your guests. Easy to prepare and full of vibrant ingredients, Clams Casino is a classic recipe that brings a touch of elegance to any meal. Enjoy this delicious starter with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and watch it disappear in no time!
Ingredients
– 24 littleneck clams
– 4 slices of bacon
– 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
– 1/4 cup finely chopped shallots
– 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons white wine
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 450 degrees.
Step 2
Scrub the clams thoroughly under cold running water to remove any sand or grit. Place the clams in a single layer in a large, deep skillet. Add a small amount of water, just enough to cover the bottom of the skillet. Cover the skillet and steam the clams over medium-high heat until they just open, about 5 to 7 minutes. Discard any clams that do not open. Remove the clams from the skillet and let them cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, remove the top shell of each clam and loosen the meat from the bottom shell, leaving it in the shell.
Step 3
While the clams are cooling, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon and drain on paper towels, then crumble it into small pieces.
Step 4
In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the chopped bell peppers and shallots. Cook over medium heat until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and crumbled bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5
Place the clams on a baking sheet. Add a small piece of butter to each clam, followed by a spoonful of the breadcrumb mixture. Drizzle each clam with a bit of white wine and lemon juice.
Step 6
Bake the clams in the preheated oven until the topping is golden brown and crispy, about 8-10 minutes.
Step 7
Remove from the oven and transfer to a serving platter. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
