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Grilled Clams in Lemon Herb Butter

Grilled clams are a tasty alternative to steamed clams.

Yesterday was a sizzling hot summer day here in southern New England.  It was a perfect day for two of our summer dinner-time favorites, seafood and grilling.

New England Grilled Clams

Grilled Clams with Lemon Herb Butter
Grilled Clams with Lemon Butter
We had a few pounds of beautiful clams we had purchased at a local grocery store and were in the mood to cook them a little differently.  

Usually, we steam our clams but decided to try cooking them on the grill thinking it would be an easier cleanup.  Grilling worked out perfectly.  The clams were delicious, tossed in a lemon herb butter, and clean up was a breeze.  Just the way it should be on a hot, summer weekend evening.
Grilled Clams in Lemon Herb Butter

Don't forget to buy a loaf of crusty bread when planning to make these grilled clams.  You can use the bread to sop up the juices and sauce.  

This is an easy summer appetizer or dinner to enjoy on your patio or deck.


Grilled Clams Ingredients
Grilled Clams Ingredients

Grilled Clams in Lemon Herb Butter

Print Recipe
  • 4 pounds clams, rinsed
  • 1 stick unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 lemon
  • 4 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 4 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped

Directions

Preheat your grill.  Rinse your clams in cool water and drain.  Prepare the lemon herb butter by melting one stick of butter in a medium pan over medium heat.  When the butter is melted add the garlic, cooking for about 1 minute.

Add two tablespoons of the parsley and two tablespoons of the chives.  Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the butter mixture and set aside.  Place the clams directly on the hot grate of your grill.   The clams will pop open one at a time.  When the clams open they are done cooking.  Be careful not to overcook them.

Clams cooking on the grill.
Clams on the Grill
Have a large bowl ready and as each clam pops open, remove it from the grill to the bowl being careful not to spill the juice from the inside of the clam.  

Continue cooking the clams until all of them have opened and are placed in the bowl.  Pour the reserved herb butter over the clams in the bowl.

The Grilled Clams in a Bowl.
Pour the Herb Butter over the Clams

Sprinkle with the remaining parsley and chives. Squeeze the other half of the lemon over the clams and toss to distribute the butter and herbs throughout. 

Serve in bowls with slices of crusty bread for sopping up the tasty broth and butter.

More Delicious Seafood Recipes

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