Smoked Clams
Seafood
Nutri-ScoreA

Smoked Clams

Mercenaria mercenaria

Clinical Encyclopedia

Smoked clams are a delicacy known for their rich flavor and high protein content. They are often enjoyed as a snack or ingredient in various dishes.

Also known as:
Clams (USA)Vongole affumicate (Italy)
Scientific NameMercenaria mercenaria
Region of OriginUnited States

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories150 kcal
Water
75%
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 b1 (thiamine)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.2 mg (15%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)2 mg (13%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.5 mg (10%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (6%)
Vitamin B1220 µg (833%)
Choline60 mg (11%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin A: 0 µgVitamin C: 0 mgVitamin D: 0 µgVitamin E: 0 mgVitamin K: 0 µgFolate: 0 µg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium50 mg (4%)
Iron28 mg (155%)
Magnesium25 mg (6%)
Phosphorus200 mg (29%)
Potassium300 mg (6%)
Zinc2 mg (18%)
Copper0.5 mg (56%)
Manganese0.1 mg (5%)
Selenium60 µg (109%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in protein and low in fat, smoked clams provide essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth.
High in vitamin B12 and iron, they support energy production and red blood cell formation.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!No clinically significant precautions or contraindications have been documented for this food in standard dietary intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Smoked clams can be enjoyed straight from the package, added to salads, or used in pasta dishes for enhanced flavor.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose smoked clams that are firm and have a pleasant aroma. Avoid any with a strong fishy smell.

How to Store

Store unopened cans in a cool, dry place. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 3 days.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
AntimicrobialRich in Omega-3 fatty acids
Main Applications
Nutritional supplement for athletes
Gourmet ingredient in culinary dishes
Bioactive Compounds
Omega-3 fatty acids

Support cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation.

How to Consume
Canned, Fresh, Cooked
Did you know?

"Smoked clams have been a traditional food source for coastal communities for centuries."

Myths vs Realities

MythSmoked clams are unhealthy due to high sodium.
RealityWhile they can be high in sodium, moderation is key, and they offer many health benefits.
MythAll clams are the same nutritionally.
RealityDifferent types of clams have varying nutritional profiles; smoked clams are particularly rich in protein.
MythYou can't eat smoked clams if you're pregnant.
RealityCooked smoked clams can be safe during pregnancy if sourced from reputable suppliers.

Healthy Recipes

Smoked Clam Quinoa Salad

A refreshing and nutritious salad combining smoked clams with protein-packed quinoa, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lemon dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 can smoked clams, drained
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, smoked clams, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
  2. 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve chilled.

Smoked Clam and Avocado Toast

A delicious and healthy twist on avocado toast topped with smoky clams for an added protein boost.

Ingredients
  • 2 slices whole grain bread
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 1 can smoked clams, drained
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Toast the whole grain bread until golden brown.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mash the avocado with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Spread the avocado mixture on the toasted bread, top with smoked clams, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Smoked Clam and Spinach Stuffed Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of smoked clams, spinach, and brown rice, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeds removed
  • 1 can smoked clams, drained
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 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 spinach until wilted. Mix in smoked clams, cooked rice, feta, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the bell pepper halves with the mixture and place them in a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender.

Smoked Clam Pasta with Garlic and Spinach

A quick and healthy pasta dish featuring smoked clams, garlic, and fresh spinach, tossed in a light olive oil sauce.

Ingredients
  • 8 oz whole wheat spaghetti
  • 1 can smoked clams, drained
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. 2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté until fragrant.
  3. 3. Add the smoked clams and spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts. Toss in the cooked spaghetti and season with salt and pepper before serving.

Smoked Clam Tacos with Cabbage Slaw

Tasty tacos filled with smoked clams and topped with a crunchy cabbage slaw for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Ingredients
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 1 can smoked clams, drained
  • 2 cups green cabbage, shredded
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix cabbage, carrot, cilantro, lime juice, and salt to create the slaw.
  2. 2. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet until pliable.
  3. 3. Assemble the tacos by placing smoked clams on the tortillas and topping with cabbage slaw. Serve immediately.

Smoked Clam and Sweet Potato Hash

A hearty breakfast hash made with sweet potatoes, smoked clams, and bell peppers, perfect for a nutritious start to your day.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
  • 1 can smoked clams, drained
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 eggs (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add sweet potatoes. Cook until tender.
  2. 2. Add onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened. Stir in smoked clams and season with salt and pepper.
  3. 3. If desired, create two wells in the hash and crack an egg into each. Cover and cook until eggs are set.

Smoked Clam Chowder

A lightened-up version of classic clam chowder featuring smoked clams, potatoes, and a creamy coconut milk base.

Ingredients
  • 1 can smoked clams, drained
  • 2 medium potatoes, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion until translucent.
  2. 2. Add potatoes and vegetable broth, bringing to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
  3. 3. Stir in smoked clams and coconut milk, seasoning with salt and pepper. Heat through and serve warm.

Smoked Clam and Chickpea Salad

A protein-packed salad featuring smoked clams and chickpeas, tossed with fresh herbs and a tangy vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 1 can smoked clams, drained
  • 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine smoked clams, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently. Serve chilled.

Smoked Clam and Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry

A low-carb stir-fry featuring smoked clams and cauliflower rice, packed with colorful vegetables and flavor.

Ingredients
  • 1 head cauliflower, riced
  • 1 can smoked clams, drained
  • 1 cup mixed bell peppers, sliced
  • 1 cup snap peas
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 green onion, sliced
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add riced cauliflower and sauté for 3-4 minutes.
  2. 2. Add bell peppers and snap peas, cooking until tender. Stir in smoked clams and soy sauce, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
  3. 3. Garnish with sliced green onion before serving.

Smoked Clam and Zucchini Noodles

A healthy, gluten-free dish featuring spiralized zucchini noodles topped with smoked clams and a light garlic sauce.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
  • 1 can smoked clams, drained
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add spiralized zucchini and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
  3. 3. Stir in smoked clams, seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are smoked clams healthy?

Yes, they are high in protein and low in fat, making them a nutritious snack.

How should I store smoked clams?

Keep them in a cool, dry place and refrigerate after opening.

Can I eat smoked clams if I'm allergic to shellfish?

No, individuals with shellfish allergies should avoid them.

What are the best ways to cook smoked clams?

They can be added to pasta, salads, or enjoyed straight from the can.

Do smoked clams contain mercury?

Like many seafood, they may contain trace amounts of mercury, but are generally safe in moderation.

How long do smoked clams last?

Unopened, they can last for years; once opened, consume within a few days.

Are smoked clams a good source of iron?

Yes, they are very high in iron, which is essential for blood health.

Can I use smoked clams in soups?

Absolutely, they add a rich flavor to soups and stews.