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–+ servings
Clams Recipe

Clams Recipe

Air fryer clams are a healthier alternative to deep-fried clams, offering a crisp, golden exterior with a tender, juicy interior. The recipe uses minimal oil, allowing the clams to retain their natural briny sweetness while achieving a crispy texture. Simple ingredients, including fresh clams, breadcrumbs, garlic, and seasoning, create a flavorful crust that complements the natural taste of the shellfish. The air fryer ensures even cooking without excess oil, making this recipe a lighter option for seafood lovers. You can customize the seasoning and dipping sauce to your taste. It's quick, easy, and perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main course.
5 from 1 vote
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Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Keyword: clams, Seafood Recipes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 9 minutes
Total Time: 19 minutes
Servings: 2 People
Calories: 225kcal

Equipment

Air Fryer
Air Fryer
Shallow bowls for breading
Shallow bowls for breading
Tongs or spatula
Tongs or spatula
Baking paper
Baking paper

Ingredients

  • 12 fresh clams with shells, cleaned
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs preferably panko for extra crunch
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for coating
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving
  • Fresh parsley for garnish, optional

Instructions

  • Prepare the Clams: Begin by washing the clams thoroughly. Scrub the shells under cold water to remove any sand or dirt. Pat the clams dry with a paper towel.
    Clams recipe instruction step 1
  • Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
    Clams recipe instruction step 2
  • Coat the Clams: Drizzle olive oil over the clams and then dip them into the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each clam is evenly coated on both sides.
  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This step ensures that the clams cook evenly and crisp up nicely.
    Clams recipe instruction step 4
  • Air Fry the Clams: Place the coated clams in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping the clams halfway through for even crispiness.
    Clams recipe instruction step 5
  • Serve and Garnish: Once the clams are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer. Serve with lemon wedges and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy immediately for the best texture.
    Clams recipe instruction step 6

Video

Notes

  • Make sure to choose fresh clams that are tightly closed. If any clams are open before cooking, discard them as they are likely dead.
  • You can substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
  • For extra flavor, try adding a bit of cayenne pepper or Old Bay seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture.
  • For a crunchy texture, use panko breadcrumbs, which will give the clams an extra crispiness.
  • If you prefer, you can use frozen clam meat instead of clams with shells. Just ensure that they are properly thawed before cooking.

Nutrition

Calories: 225kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 11mg | Sodium: 417mg | Potassium: 95mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 355IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 165mg | Iron: 2mg