Clams on the Grill: Easy & Flavorful Seafood Recipe
Grilled clams are an easy and flavorful way to enjoy fresh seafood.
As they heat, their shells naturally open, revealing tender, juicy meat with a light smoky flavor. This method enhances their briny taste, making them a great addition to any seafood spread.
Whether served as an appetizer or main course, these clams are sure to impress. For more ideas, check out these seafood recipes to pair with your dish.
They’re quick to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and are perfect for entertaining. Enjoy them with butter, garlic, fresh herbs, or a squeeze of lemon for added flavor.
How to Cook Clams on the Grill
Gather your ingredients and scroll down for the full printable recipe with all the steps and tips for perfect clams every time!
Start by soaking your clams in cold water with cornmeal to remove any sand. Make sure to discard any open or foul-smelling clams.
Next, preheat your grill to medium-high and melt butter in a cast iron skillet.
Once the grill is ready, place your clams on the grate, close the lid, and let them cook until they pop open.
Once they’re done, serve with the melted butter and a squeeze of fresh lemon.
Up to 3 days in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container. Be sure to refrigerate them as soon as possible after cooking to maintain freshness.
Yes, it’s recommended to. Soaking them in cold water with cornmeal for about 20 minutes helps to release any sand or grit inside the shells, ensuring a cleaner, more enjoyable dish.
Grilling takes about 15 minutes. Once placed on the grill, close the lid and wait for the shells to pop open. Don’t overcook them, as they may dry out. If the shells only crack open slightly, they are still done and ready to enjoy.
What to Serve with Grilled Clams
Here are some great side dish options:
- A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs well with seafood.
- Crusty baguette or homemade sourdough bread is perfect for dipping into the garlic butter sauce.
- Serve grilled vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers, for a balanced meal.
- A light salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the clams.
- Serve rice or pasta alongside to soak up the flavorful garlic butter sauce.
- Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds sweetness and texture.
Clams on the grill make a great addition to any meal. Pair them with grilled salmon or shrimp skewers for a delicious, well-rounded meal.
BBQ Recipe Book
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Grilled Clams with Garlic Butter Recipe
Ingredients
- 20 Clams
- 1 Stick of Salted Butter ½ cup
- 1 Tablespoon Minced Garlic
- 1 Tablespoon Minced Fresh Parsley
- 2 Lemon Wedges
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium/high and place an 8-inch cast iron skillet on the grate with the butter inside.
- Allow the butter to melt before adding the garlic and parsley and stirring well. Leave on the grates throughout the cooking process.
- During the butter melting process, once the grill heats up, place the clams on the grate. Allow them to cook for 15 minutes or until the clams pop open.
- Once the clams are finished, place them in a serving bowl, pour the butter sauce over the top, and squeeze the lemon wedges over the contents of the bowl. Enjoy!
This looks delicious and so easy! Will definitely be trying it this summer!