Grilled Clam
Meats
Nutri-ScoreA

Grilled Clam

Venerupis philippinarum

Clinical Encyclopedia

Grilled clams are a delicious seafood option, rich in protein and essential nutrients. They are often enjoyed for their unique flavor and tender texture.

Also known as:
Steamed ClamsBaked Clams
Scientific NameVenerupis philippinarum
Region of OriginJapan

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories150 kcal
Water
80%
Fiber0g
Total32.0g
Protein
25g(78%)
Fats
2g(6%)
Carbohydrates
5g(16%)

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 B1210 µg (417%)
Vitamin C2 mg (2%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Iron2 mg (11%)
Zinc1.5 mg (14%)
Selenium40 µg (73%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

High in protein, grilled clams provide essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth.
Rich in Vitamin B12, they support nerve function and the production of DNA and red blood cells.
Contain minerals like iron and zinc, which are crucial for immune function and overall health.
Low in calories and fats, making them an excellent choice for weight management.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Individuals with shellfish allergies should avoid consuming clams to prevent allergic reactions.
!Overconsumption may lead to elevated levels of heavy metals if sourced from polluted waters.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed grilled with a light seasoning of garlic and herbs. Ensure they are cooked thoroughly to eliminate any harmful bacteria.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose clams that are tightly closed or close when tapped. Avoid any that are cracked or have an off smell.

How to Store

Keep live clams in a breathable container in the refrigerator, ideally covered with a damp cloth, and consume within 2-3 days.

Myths vs Realities

MythClams are only available in summer.
RealityClams can be harvested year-round, depending on the species and location.
MythAll clams are safe to eat raw.
RealityNot all clams are safe to eat raw; some may carry harmful bacteria.
MythEating clams can cause high cholesterol.
RealityClams are low in saturated fat and cholesterol, making them a heart-healthy option.

Healthy Recipes

Mediterranean Grilled Clams with Quinoa Salad

These grilled clams are paired with a refreshing quinoa salad, bursting with Mediterranean flavors and packed with nutrients.

Ingredients
  • 12 fresh clams
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup diced cucumber
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Place clams on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes until they open up, then serve with the quinoa salad and garnish with parsley.

Spicy Grilled Clams with Garlic Butter

These spicy grilled clams are enhanced with a zesty garlic butter sauce, perfect for a healthy yet indulgent appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 12 clams
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
  • Chopped chives for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Melt the butter in a small saucepan and stir in garlic, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, and salt.
  2. 2. Preheat the grill and place clams on the grill for about 5 minutes until they open.
  3. 3. Drizzle garlic butter over the clams and garnish with chives before serving.

Grilled Clam Tacos with Avocado Salsa

These vibrant grilled clam tacos are topped with a creamy avocado salsa, making for a nutritious and flavorful meal.

Ingredients
  • 12 clams
  • 4 corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Grill the clams for 5-7 minutes until they open, then remove from heat.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine avocado, tomatoes, cilantro, lime juice, and salt.
  3. 3. Serve clams in corn tortillas topped with avocado salsa.

Herbed Grilled Clams with Lemon Zest

These herbed grilled clams are infused with fresh herbs and bright lemon zest, delivering a light and healthy dish.

Ingredients
  • 12 clams
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Mix olive oil, thyme, basil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  2. 2. Coat clams with the herb mixture and let marinate for 15 minutes.
  3. 3. Grill clams for 5-7 minutes until they open, then serve immediately.

Grilled Clams with Spinach and Feta

These grilled clams are stuffed with a savory mixture of spinach and feta cheese, creating a delicious and healthy dish.

Ingredients
  • 12 clams
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Sauté spinach and garlic in olive oil until wilted, then mix in feta, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Preheat the grill and stuff each clam with the spinach and feta mixture.
  3. 3. Grill for 5-7 minutes until clams open, then serve warm.

Coconut Curry Grilled Clams

These grilled clams are bathed in a fragrant coconut curry sauce, offering a unique twist on traditional clam dishes.

Ingredients
  • 12 clams
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons red curry paste
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, red curry paste, fish sauce, and lime juice, and simmer for 5 minutes.
  2. 2. Grill clams for 5-7 minutes until they open.
  3. 3. Serve clams drizzled with coconut curry sauce and garnish with cilantro.

Grilled Clams with Tomato Basil Salsa

These grilled clams are topped with a fresh tomato basil salsa, making for a light and refreshing dish.

Ingredients
  • 12 clams
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup chopped basil
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Mix tomatoes, basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  2. 2. Grill clams for 5-7 minutes until they open.
  3. 3. Top grilled clams with the tomato basil salsa before serving.

Lemon Herb Grilled Clams with Asparagus

These grilled clams are served with tender asparagus and a zesty lemon herb dressing, creating a healthy and elegant dish.

Ingredients
  • 12 clams
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon, juiced and zested
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Toss asparagus with olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, dill, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Grill asparagus until tender and clams until they open, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve clams alongside asparagus, drizzled with any remaining lemon herb dressing.

Grilled Clams with Cilantro Lime Rice

These grilled clams are served with a side of cilantro lime rice, creating a delicious and nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 12 clams
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Mix cooked rice with cilantro, lime juice, and salt.
  2. 2. Grill clams for 5-7 minutes until they open.
  3. 3. Serve clams over a bed of cilantro lime rice.

Grilled Clams with Mango Salsa

These grilled clams are topped with a vibrant mango salsa, adding a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish.

Ingredients
  • 12 clams
  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, diced
  • 1 jalapeño, minced
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt.
  2. 2. Grill clams for 5-7 minutes until they open.
  3. 3. Top grilled clams with mango salsa before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are grilled clams healthy?

Yes, grilled clams are low in calories and high in protein, making them a nutritious seafood option.

How do you know when clams are cooked?

Clams are cooked when their shells open and the meat is opaque.

Can you eat clam shells?

No, clam shells are not edible and should be discarded after cooking.

What is the best way to grill clams?

Grill clams on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until they open, adding garlic butter for flavor.

Are clams high in cholesterol?

Clams are relatively low in cholesterol compared to other meats, making them a heart-healthy choice.

How should clams be stored?

Store live clams in a breathable container in the refrigerator and consume within a few days.

What nutrients are in clams?

Clams are rich in protein, Vitamin B12, iron, and zinc.

Can you freeze grilled clams?

Yes, grilled clams can be frozen, but their texture may change upon thawing.