Grilled Florida Clams with Garlic Butter

Introduction

Grilled Florida clams with garlic butter are a simple yet elegant dish bursting with flavor. The Arteflame grill enhances the natural sweetness of the clams while the garlic butter brings rich, savory depth. Whether you’re grilling for a gathering or a quick meal, this recipe will leave you craving more.

Ingredients

• 2 dozen Florida hard-shell clams, scrubbed
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 loaf crusty bread, for serving
• Lemon wedges, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the top of the soaked napkins.
3. Light the paper and allow the fire to build. In about 20 minutes, the Arteflame grill will be ready for cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter

1. Melt the butter on the flat-top griddle near the outer edge where the heat is lower.
2. Add the minced garlic and let it sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in parsley, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
4. Move the garlic butter to the coolest zone to keep warm while grilling the clams.

Step 3: Grill the Florida Clams

1. Place the clams directly on the flat-top cooktop in a medium heat zone.
2. Close the clams on the grill and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes.
3. As they open, use tongs to remove them immediately. Discard any clams that do not open.

Step 4: Toss Clams in Garlic Butter

1. Place the opened clams in a serving bowl.
2. Drizzle the warm garlic butter over the clams, ensuring they are well-coated.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Plate the clams with crusty bread and lemon wedges.
2. Enjoy your perfectly grilled Florida clams with garlic butter!

Tips

• Make sure to use fresh Florida clams for the best results.
• Do not overcook clams; as soon as they open, they are ready to eat.
• Keep the butter on a cooler part of the flat-top so it doesn't burn.

Variations

1. Herbed Butter Clams: Add fresh thyme and basil to the garlic butter for extra herbal flavors.
2. Spicy Clams: Mix in finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne for heat.
3. White Wine Clams: Drizzle a splash of dry white wine over the clams as they cook for a refined taste.
4. Citrus Clams: Use a mix of fresh orange and lemon juice to add a citrusy burst.
5. Cheesy Clams: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan over the clams right before serving.

Best Pairings

• A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay
• Grilled asparagus or zucchini
• A light seafood pasta

Conclusion

Grilled Florida clams with garlic butter are a simple yet elegant dish bursting with flavor. The Arteflame grill enhances the natural sweetness of the clams while the garlic butter brings rich, savory depth. Whether you’re grilling for a gathering or a quick meal, this recipe will leave you craving more.