Manila Clams
Venerupis philippinarumClinical Encyclopedia
Manila clams are a popular seafood choice known for their sweet, briny flavor and tender texture. They are rich in protein and essential nutrients, making them a healthy addition to various dishes.
Macronutrient Ratio
Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g
Micronutrient DV% Score
Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value
Complete Micronutrient Breakdown
Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.
Vitamins
Minerals
Health Benefits
Possible Risks & Side Effects
How to Prepare & Consume
Best enjoyed steamed, grilled, or in soups. Ensure they are thoroughly cleaned and cooked to avoid foodborne illness.
Smart Selection & Storage
Choose clams that are tightly closed and have a fresh ocean smell. Avoid any that are cracked or open.
Store clams in the refrigerator in a breathable container, covered with a damp cloth. Do not store in water.
Myths vs Realities
Healthy Recipes
Garlic and Lemon Manila Clams
A light and zesty dish featuring Manila clams sautéed with garlic and finished with a splash of lemon juice, perfect for a healthy dinner.
- 1 pound Manila clams, cleaned
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- 2. Add the cleaned Manila clams to the skillet and pour in the lemon juice, stirring to combine.
- 3. Cover the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until the clams open, then garnish with parsley, salt, and pepper before serving.
Spicy Manila Clam Pasta
Whole grain pasta tossed with Manila clams in a spicy tomato sauce, offering a nutritious and flavorful meal.
- 8 ounces whole grain spaghetti
- 1 pound Manila clams, cleaned
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil for garnish
- 1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- 2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant.
- 3. Add the diced tomatoes and clams, cover, and cook until the clams open. Toss with spaghetti and garnish with fresh basil.
Manila Clam and Quinoa Salad
A nutritious salad combining protein-rich quinoa and tender Manila clams, dressed with a light vinaigrette.
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 pound Manila clams, cleaned
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. Steam the Manila clams until they open, then set aside to cool.
- 2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cucumber, bell pepper, and clams.
- 3. Whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper, then drizzle over the salad and toss to combine.
Manila Clam Chowder with Cauliflower
A healthy twist on traditional chowder, using cauliflower to create a creamy base while keeping it low in calories.
- 1 pound Manila clams, cleaned
- 1 head cauliflower, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup almond milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent, then add cauliflower and vegetable broth.
- 2. Simmer until cauliflower is tender, then blend until smooth and return to the pot.
- 3. Add the Manila clams and almond milk, cooking until the clams open. Season with salt and pepper.
Manila Clam Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Fresh and vibrant tacos filled with sautéed Manila clams and topped with a creamy avocado salsa for a healthy twist.
- 1 pound Manila clams, cleaned
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, diced
- 1 lime, juiced
- Cilantro for garnish
- 1. Sauté the Manila clams in a skillet until they open, then set aside.
- 2. In a bowl, combine avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro to make the salsa.
- 3. Warm the tortillas, fill with clams, and top with avocado salsa before serving.
Manila Clam and Vegetable Stir-Fry
A colorful stir-fry featuring Manila clams and a mix of vibrant vegetables, perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
- 1 pound Manila clams, cleaned
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 carrots, julienned
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1. In a wok, heat sesame oil and sauté ginger until fragrant.
- 2. Add the vegetables and stir-fry until tender-crisp, then add the Manila clams and soy sauce.
- 3. Cover and cook until the clams open, then serve immediately.
Manila Clam and Sweet Potato Bake
A hearty and nutritious baked dish combining Manila clams with sweet potatoes and herbs for a comforting meal.
- 1 pound Manila clams, cleaned
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper, then spread on a baking sheet.
- 2. Bake for 20 minutes, then add the Manila clams on top and return to the oven for another 10 minutes until clams open.
- 3. Serve warm, drizzled with additional olive oil if desired.
Manila Clam and Spinach Soup
A light and nutritious soup featuring Manila clams and fresh spinach, perfect for a healthy starter.
- 1 pound Manila clams, cleaned
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until soft, then add vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- 2. Add Manila clams and cook until they open, then stir in fresh spinach until wilted.
- 3. Season with salt and pepper before serving.
Manila Clam and Chickpea Stew
A hearty stew combining protein-rich chickpeas and Manila clams, seasoned with spices for a flavorful dish.
- 1 pound Manila clams, cleaned
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant, then add chickpeas and cumin, stirring to combine.
- 2. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer, then add Manila clams and cook until they open.
- 3. Season with salt and pepper before serving hot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are Manila clams?
Manila clams are a species of clam native to the coastal waters of the Philippines and are known for their sweet flavor and tender texture.
How should I cook Manila clams?
Manila clams can be steamed, boiled, or grilled. They should be cooked until they open, indicating they are done.
Are Manila clams healthy?
Yes, they are low in calories and high in protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious seafood option.
How do I clean Manila clams?
Soak them in salted water for about 20 minutes to help them expel sand, then rinse under cold water.
Can I eat the shell of Manila clams?
No, the shells are not edible; only the meat inside should be consumed.
Where can I buy fresh Manila clams?
Fresh Manila clams can be found at seafood markets, grocery stores with seafood sections, or online seafood retailers.
How long do Manila clams last in the fridge?
They should be consumed within 1-2 days of purchase for optimal freshness.
What is the best way to store Manila clams?
Store them in a breathable container in the refrigerator, covered with a damp cloth to keep them moist.