Updated on: 4/24/2025
Clams Casino Recipe: A Timeless Culinary Delight
Picture this: a warm summer evening, a light breeze, and the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked clams wafting through the air. It was at a quaint seaside restaurant that I first encountered the legendary Clams Casino. The combination of tender clams, crispy bacon, and a hint of garlic was nothing short of magical. Ever since that unforgettable meal, I've been on a mission to perfect this classic dish at home. Join me on this flavorful journey as we explore the ins and outs of creating the perfect Clams Casino.
Quick Facts
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
- Alcohol Content: None
Classic Clams Casino Recipe
Creating the perfect Clams Casino is all about balance. You want the clams to shine, complemented by the savory notes of bacon and a touch of garlic. Here's how you can recreate this classic dish in your own kitchen:
Ingredients:
- 24 fresh clams
- 60 ml of white wine
- 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 60 g of bread crumbs
- 30 g of grated Parmesan cheese
- 30 ml of olive oil
- 15 ml of lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 220°C.
- Clean the clams thoroughly under cold water.
- In a large pot, steam the clams with white wine until they open. Discard any that do not open.
- Remove the top shell of each clam and place the bottom shell with the clam meat on a baking tray.
- In a skillet, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent.
- Add the crumbled bacon, bread crumbs, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Spoon the mixture onto each clam, covering the meat completely.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes until the topping is golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Variations on a Classic
The beauty of Clams Casino lies in its versatility. Here are a few delightful variations to try:
- Bacon-Free Delight: For a lighter version, skip the bacon and add sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
- Cheesy Twist: Swap Parmesan for sharp cheddar to add a bold, cheesy kick.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for those who love a bit of heat.
Casino Royale Martini: A Cocktail Fit for Bond
While Clams Casino is a dish to savor, why not pair it with a drink that’s equally sophisticated? Enter the Casino Royale Martini, a cocktail that’s as iconic as it is delicious.
Ingredients:
- 60 ml of gin
- 15 ml of vodka
- 7.5 ml of Lillet Blanc
- Lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions:
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc.
- Shake vigorously and strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist and enjoy.
Share Your Clams Casino Creations!
I hope this guide inspires you to try your hand at making Clams Casino at home. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, I’d love to hear about your culinary adventures. Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to spread the love by sharing this recipe with your friends on social media. Cheers to delicious dining experiences!