Dive into a culinary adventure with our Spicy Spanish Clams with Tomatoes, a dish that promises to transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant shores of Spain! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this tantalizing seafood delight, bursting with the rich flavors of fresh clams, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a hint of spice. Perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a cozy night in, this recipe is a must-try for any seafood lover. Ready to make waves in your kitchen? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs clams, cleaned
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup white wine
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by cleaning the clams under cold running water. Scrub the shells to remove any dirt or sand. Discard any clams that are open and do not close when tapped.
- In a large skillet or frying pan, heat a generous drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm for about a minute.
- Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the garlic and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
- Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture to evenly distribute the spices.
- Pour in the white wine, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2 minutes, letting the alcohol cook off and the flavors meld together.
- Carefully add the cleaned clams to the skillet. Cover the pan with a lid and increase the heat to medium-high. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the clams have opened up. Discard any clams that remain closed.
- Once the clams are cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to your preference.
- To serve, ladle the spicy clams and broth into bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
- Enjoy your Spicy Spanish Clams with Tomatoes as a delicious appetizer or main dish, paired with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Clams: Always select fresh clams for the best flavor. Look for clams that are tightly closed or close when tapped. Discard any that remain open.
- Don’t Rush the Garlic: Sauté the garlic just until fragrant to avoid bitterness. Keep an eye on it; it only takes a minute!
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. Conversely, if you love heat, feel free to add more!
- Use Quality Wine: The white wine adds depth to the broth, so opt for a good quality wine that you would enjoy drinking.
- Serve with Crusty Bread: This dish is perfect for dipping! Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth and enhance your dining experience.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also elevates the dish's flavor. Don’t skip this step!
- Pair with a Refreshing Drink: Complement your meal with a chilled glass of white wine or a light beer to enhance the flavors of this Spanish-inspired dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 181kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 21g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 75mg
