Clams Oreganata in 15 Minutes: Quick and Delicious Seafood Recipe

Clams Oreganata in 15 minutes is a delightful dish that brings the taste of the coast right to your kitchen. This classic Italian-American recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it a favorite among seafood lovers. Originating from the coastal regions of Italy, Clams Oreganata showcases the simplicity and freshness of its ingredients, allowing the natural brininess of the clams to shine through.

What I love most about Clams Oreganata in 15 minutes is how it perfectly balances the savory notes of garlic and herbs with the tender, juicy clams. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds a delightful texture that elevates the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is not only convenient but also a surefire way to impress your guests with minimal effort. So, let’s dive into this quick and delicious recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

• 24 fresh littleneck clams
• 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Clams

1. Start by rinsing the clams under cold running water. This helps to remove any sand or grit that may be on their shells. I like to use a brush to scrub the shells gently, ensuring they are clean. 2. Once cleaned, place the clams in a bowl of cold water for about 20 minutes. This allows them to expel any remaining sand. After 20 minutes, drain the clams and set them aside.

Making the Topping

3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the fresh breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). 4. Drizzle in the olive oil and mix everything together until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. The mixture should be moist but not soggy. If it feels too dry, add a little more olive oil. 5. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. I usually go light on the salt since the Parmesan cheese is already salty.

Assembling the Clams

6. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature for getting that nice, golden-brown topping. 7. Take a baking dish and arrange the cleaned clams in a single layer, with the hinge side down. This helps them stay closed during cooking. 8. Spoon a generous amount of the breadcrumb mixture onto each clam, pressing it down slightly to ensure it adheres well. I like to pile it on for a hearty topping!

Cooking the Clams

9. Once all the clams are topped, place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the clams have opened up. 10. Keep an eye on them; if any clams remain closed after cooking, it’s best to discard them as they may not be safe to eat.

Serving the Clams

11. Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a minute. The clams will be hot, so be careful when serving. 12. Serve the clams Oreganata hot, garnished with lemon wedges on the side. Squeezing fresh lemon juice over the clams just before eating adds a delightful brightness to the dish. 13. Enjoy your Clams Oreganata with a side of crusty bread to soak up any leftover juices. It’s a perfect appetizer or a light main dish that’s sure to impress!

Tips for Success

14. If you can’t find littleneck clams, you can substitute with other types of clams, but make sure they are fresh and suitable for baking. 15. Feel free to customize the breadcrumb topping by adding other herbs like basil or thyme, or even some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor kick. 16. If you want to make this dish even quicker, you can prepare the breadcrumb mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. 17. Pair your Clams Oreganata with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, to enhance the flavors of the dish. 18. This recipe is not only quick but also a fantastic way to enjoy seafood at home. The combination of the savory topping and the briny clams is simply irresistible! Now that you have all the steps laid out, you’re ready to whip up this delicious Clams Oreganata in just 15 minutes. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a dish of Clams Oreganata that is not only delicious but also impressively easy to make. This recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their seafood game without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of fresh clams, zesty breadcrumbs, and aromatic herbs creates a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce seafood to your family or friends who might be hesitant about trying new things. For serving suggestions, I love pairing these clams with a crisp white wine or a refreshing salad to balance the richness of the dish. You can also get creative with variations—try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or swapping out the breadcrumbs for crushed crackers for a different texture. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Clams Oreganata recipe a try and make it your own. Once you’ve tasted the delightful flavors, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your finished dish. Let’s spread the love for this quick and tasty seafood delight! Print