Discover how to make Almejas a la Marinera, a classic Spanish dish featuring tender clams simmered in a rich white wine and garlic sauce. Perfect as a starter or main course, this recipe highlights the fresh, briny flavor of clams complemented by a savory, aromatic sauce. Ideal for seafood lovers and those seeking an elegant, yet simple, dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds fresh clams (cleaned and scrubbed)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup chicken or seafood broth
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Prep the Clams:
- Rinse the clams under cold water and scrub them to remove any sand or grit. Discard any that are cracked or open and do not close when tapped.
Cook the Aromatics:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Add Wine and Broth:
- Pour in the white wine and chicken or seafood broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
Cook the Clams:
- Add the clams to the skillet, covering with a lid. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the clams have opened. Discard any clams that remain closed.
Finish the Dish:
- Stir in the chopped parsley and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve:
- Transfer the clams and sauce to a serving dish. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. Enjoy with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
This recipe for Almejas a la Marinera is sure to impress with its simple yet flavorful approach to preparing clams.
Nutritional Values:
Clams:
- Calories: 70
- Protein: 12 grams
- Fat: 1 gram
- Carbohydrates: 3 grams
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
- Iron: 23% of Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin B12: 84% of DV
- Sodium: 250 mg
Benefits:
- High in Protein: Supports muscle growth and repair.
- Rich in Iron: Essential for red blood cell production and preventing anemia.
- Excellent Source of Vitamin B12: Important for nerve function and red blood cell formation.
- Low in Fat: Suitable for low-fat diets.
Olive Oil:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 14 grams
- Saturated Fat: 2 grams
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10 grams
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.5 grams
Benefits:
- Heart-Healthy Fats: Rich in monounsaturated fats that support cardiovascular health.
- Antioxidants: Contains vitamin E and other antioxidants that help reduce inflammation.
- Improves Digestion: May support healthy digestion and reduce digestive issues.
Garlic:
- Calories: 4
- Protein: 0.2 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Vitamin C: 1% of DV
Benefits:
- Antimicrobial Properties: May help fight infections and boost the immune system.
- Heart Health: Contains compounds that may reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Anti-inflammatory: Can help reduce inflammation and support overall health.
Onion:
- Calories: 44
- Protein: 1 gram
- Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10 grams
- Vitamin C: 11% of DV
Benefits:
- Antioxidants: Rich in antioxidants like quercetin that may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Digestive Health: Supports healthy digestion and may improve gut health.
- Anti-inflammatory: Contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation.
White Wine:
- Calories: 125
- Alcohol: 12-15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 4 grams
Benefits:
- Antioxidants: Contains polyphenols that may have heart health benefits.
- Digestive Aid: May aid in digestion and improve appetite.
Chicken or Seafood Broth:
- Calories: 10-20
- Protein: 1-2 grams
- Fat: 0-1 gram
- Sodium: 600-800 mg
Benefits:
- Hydration: Helps maintain hydration levels.
- Nutrient Boost: Provides additional nutrients and flavor with minimal calories.
Parsley:
- Calories: 5
- Protein: 0.5 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Vitamin C: 24% of DV
- Vitamin K: 60% of DV
Benefits:
- Rich in Vitamins: High in vitamins C and K, which support immune health and bone health.
- Antioxidants: Contains antioxidants that help fight free radicals and inflammation.
- Digestive Health: May aid in digestion and reduce bloating.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional):
- Calories: 6
- Protein: 0.3 grams
- Fat: 0.3 grams
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
Benefits:
- Metabolism Boost: Capsaicin can increase metabolism and aid in weight management.
- Antioxidants: Contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and support overall health.
Lemon Wedges:
- Calories: 2
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 0.5 grams
- Vitamin C: 5% of DV
Benefits:
- High in Vitamin C: Supports immune health and skin health.
- Digestive Aid: May aid in digestion and enhance the flavor of dishes.
These ingredients combine to make a flavorful and nutritious dish with various health benefits.
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