Steamed Clams with Garlic and Herbs
Steamed Clams with Garlic and Herbs is a classic coastal dish, most famously associated with Mediterranean cuisine, particularly Italian and Portuguese traditions. It features fresh clams steamed open in a fragrant broth of white wine, garlic, fresh parsley, and sometimes a touch of chili or butter. The dish celebrates the natural briny sweetness of the clams, enhanced by simple, aromatic ingredients.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is high in protein and very low in carbohydrates, making it a lean, nutrient-dense meal. It provides excellent sources of iron, vitamin B12, and selenium, with a typical serving (about 1 cup of clams with broth) containing roughly 200-300 calories, depending on the amount of added fats like butter or oil.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbs | 5 g |
| Fat | 4 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
| Iron | 24 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 84 mcg |
| Selenium | 68 mcg |
| Zinc | 5 mg |
| Phosphorus | 300 mg |
| Copper | 1.5 mg |
| Manganese | 4 mg |
| Vitamin C | 10 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, steamed clams are a social, hands-on dish often served in a communal pot, encouraging shared dining. Nutritionally, clams are one of the best natural sources of vitamin B12, essential for nerve health, and their iron is highly bioavailable, making this dish a powerhouse for combating deficiencies.
