Escargot
Meats
Nutri-ScoreA

Escargot

Helix pomatia

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Escargot provides 90 kcal, 12g of protein, 1g of carbohydrates, and 0.5g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Escargot, or snails cooked in garlic butter, is a delicacy known for its rich flavor and unique texture. They are a good source of protein and essential nutrients.

Also known as:
SnailsHelix snails
Scientific NameHelix pomatia
Region of OriginFrance

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories90 kcal
Water
75%
Fiber0.5g
Total17.5g
Protein
12g(69%)
Fats
4.5g(26%)
Carbohydrates
1g(6%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin B121.5 µg (25%)
Vitamin A300 IU (10%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Iron3.5 mg (20%)
Magnesium30 mg (8%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in protein, escargot provides essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth.
High in Vitamin B12, which is crucial for nerve function and the production of DNA and red blood cells.
Contains iron, which is vital for oxygen transport in the blood and preventing anemia.
Low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb diets.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Individuals with shellfish allergies should avoid escargot as they may trigger allergic reactions.
!Improperly cooked snails can carry parasites, so ensure they are sourced from reputable suppliers.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed baked in garlic butter, served hot. Ensure snails are cleaned and cooked thoroughly to eliminate any potential parasites.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose fresh, live snails that are firm and have a clean shell. Avoid any that are cracked or have an unpleasant odor.

How to Store

Store live snails in a cool, dry place and consume them within a few days. Cooked escargots should be refrigerated and eaten within 2-3 days.

Myths vs Realities

MythEscargots are only eaten in France.
RealityWhile popular in France, escargots are enjoyed in various cultures around the world.
MythAll snails are edible.
RealityNot all snails are safe to eat; only specific species are cultivated for consumption.
MythEscargots are high in cholesterol.
RealityEscargots are low in cholesterol compared to many meats, making them a heart-healthy option.

Healthy Recipes

Garlic Herb Escargot with Quinoa

A delightful twist on traditional escargot, this dish combines tender snails with a fragrant garlic herb butter served over fluffy quinoa for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 12 escargots, cleaned
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant, then add escargots and herbs, cooking for 5 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve the escargots over cooked quinoa, seasoning with salt and pepper.

Escargot and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms

These savory stuffed mushrooms are filled with a mixture of escargot, spinach, and feta cheese, making for a healthy appetizer that’s bursting with flavor.

Ingredients
  • 12 large portobello mushrooms
  • 1 cup cooked escargots, chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, wilted
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix escargots, spinach, feta, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the mushroom caps with the mixture and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.

Escargot Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

This refreshing salad features escargot atop a bed of mixed greens, drizzled with a zesty lemon vinaigrette for a light and nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup escargots, cooked
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine salad greens, cucumber, and onion.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Toss the salad with the vinaigrette and top with escargots before serving.

Spicy Escargot Tacos with Avocado

These unique tacos feature escargot sautéed with spices and topped with creamy avocado, offering a healthy twist on a classic dish.

Ingredients
  • 12 escargots, cleaned
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 4 corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté escargots with chili powder and cumin for 5 minutes.
  2. 2. Warm the corn tortillas in a separate skillet.
  3. 3. Assemble tacos by placing escargots on tortillas, topping with avocado slices and cilantro.

Escargot and Sweet Potato Hash

This hearty hash combines escargot with roasted sweet potatoes and bell peppers, making for a filling and nutritious breakfast option.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup escargots, cooked
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh chives for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast for 25 minutes.
  2. 2. In a skillet, sauté bell pepper until soft, then add escargots and roasted sweet potatoes.
  3. 3. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives.

Escargot and Zucchini Noodles

A low-carb alternative, this dish features escargot served over spiralized zucchini noodles with a light garlic sauce.

Ingredients
  • 12 escargots, cooked
  • 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add spiralized zucchini and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender, then add escargots.
  3. 3. Season with salt and pepper, serve garnished with Parmesan cheese.

Escargot and Tomato Basil Bruschetta

This elegant bruschetta features escargot paired with fresh tomatoes and basil on whole-grain bread, perfect as a healthy appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 12 escargots, cooked
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 4 slices whole-grain bread
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine tomatoes, basil, balsamic vinegar, and escargots.
  2. 2. Toast whole-grain bread slices in olive oil until golden.
  3. 3. Top toasted bread with the escargot mixture and serve immediately.

Escargot and Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry

A healthy stir-fry featuring escargot and cauliflower rice, packed with vegetables and flavor for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup escargots, cooked
  • 2 cups cauliflower rice
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil and sauté bell pepper and broccoli until tender.
  2. 2. Add cauliflower rice and escargots, stirring in soy sauce.
  3. 3. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, then serve hot.

Escargot and Chickpea Curry

This unique curry combines escargot with chickpeas and spices, served over brown rice for a healthy and satisfying dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup escargots, cooked
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 2 cups brown rice, cooked
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, combine chickpeas, coconut milk, curry powder, and escargots, simmering for 10 minutes.
  2. 2. Serve the curry over cooked brown rice, seasoning with salt.

Escargot and Asparagus Frittata

This protein-packed frittata features escargot and fresh asparagus, making for a healthy breakfast or brunch option.

Ingredients
  • 12 escargots, cooked
  • 6 eggs
  • 1 cup asparagus, chopped
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, salt, and pepper, then stir in escargots and asparagus.
  3. 3. Heat olive oil in a skillet, pour in the egg mixture, and bake for 20 minutes until set.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are escargots healthy?

Yes, escargots are low in calories and high in protein, making them a healthy choice when prepared properly.

How should I cook escargots?

Escargots are typically cooked in garlic butter and baked until tender. Ensure they are cleaned and cooked thoroughly.

Can I eat escargots if I'm allergic to shellfish?

No, if you have a shellfish allergy, you should avoid escargots as they can trigger allergic reactions.

What do escargots taste like?

Escargots have a mild, slightly earthy flavor that absorbs the taste of the garlic butter they are cooked in.

How do I prepare snails for cooking?

Snails should be purged, cleaned, and cooked properly to ensure they are safe to eat.

Where can I buy escargots?

Escargots can be found in specialty grocery stores, gourmet shops, or online.

Are escargots sustainable?

Yes, when sourced from responsible farms, escargots can be a sustainable food choice.

How many calories are in escargots?

There are approximately 90 calories in a serving of escargots cooked in garlic butter.