31 Seriously Good Clam Recipes

From Linguine Vongole to chowder, these are the clam recipes you'll want to try.

If you can't get enough of seafood, and love everything from swordfish and salmon, to scallops and shellfish such as lobster and shrimp, chances are you probably also enjoy clams. These delicious fleshy morsels are ideal for soups, pasta, stews, pizza, paella...the list goes on and on. And while they're also available year-round, most can't help but make them in the summertime when the weather is warm. Is there anything better than a big batch of fried clam strips and a nice cold beer? Not really. Or a spicy clam pasta paired with a crisp rosé? We think not. Here, we've rounded up 31 of the best clam recipes and tips for how to cook clams so you get it right every time. And if you don't have access to fresh clams, there's always the option of canned clam recipes.

Related: How Many Clams Do You Need for Your Seafood Dinner?

What are Clams?

Clams are basically a type of shellfish that can be found both in saltwater and freshwater. The word clam typically refers to edible clams, which can be made into a variety of recipes.

How Do You Cook Clams?

Clams are typically cooked by steaming them in a covered pot (or pan) for approximately 3 to 5 minutes until their shells open. Any clams whose shells do not open after the suggested cooking time should be thrown away, because that usually means that these clams are not good for eating.

Now that we've got the clam basics down, it's time to dive into the world of delicious clam recipes. From the popular Clam Chowder and Clams in Red Sauce, to Spicy Clam Pasta, Linguine Vongole and Fried Whole Belly Clams, there are just so many clam delicacies to choose from.

Here are 31 amazing clam recipes for seafood lovers. Browse through them, pin your favorites and get ready to make a whole lotta clams this summer.

Next up: Can You Freeze Clam Chowder?