7 Ways to Cook Frozen Clam Strips for Quick and Easy Meals
Cooking with clam strips is easy and versatile. From baking to frying, there are many tasty options to try, making meal prep a breeze.
Clam strips are slices of Atlantic surf clams that have been cleaned, sliced, and often breaded before being cooked. They are known for their tender texture and mild flavor, making them an ideal choice for those who enjoy seafood but prefer a less fishy taste.
Clam strips can be found pre-packaged in the frozen section of most grocery stores, making them a convenient option for quick and easy meals. Frozen clam strips are pre-cooked and then flash-frozen to preserve their quality and freshness. They are typically breaded, which adds a crispy outer layer that pairs well with the tender clam meat inside.
The frozen variety is convenient as it can be stored for an extended period and cooked straight from frozen, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or impromptu seafood feasts.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you!
1. Oven Baked Clam Strips
Oven baking is a healthier alternative to frying and is one of the easiest ways to cook frozen clam strips. Preheat your oven to 400°F (for a 9 oz package) or 425°F (for 12 oz and 20 oz packages). Arrange the frozen clam strips in a single layer on a baking sheet and place it on the middle rack of the oven.
Bake for 10-12 minutes (9 oz package) 14-15 minutes for half a package (12 oz and 20 oz packages) or 20-21 minutes for a full package. For best results, turn the clam strips over halfway through cooking.
2. Fried Clam Strips
If you’re a fan of Friendly’s clam strips platter, you can recreate their signature dish at home by frying the frozen clam strips. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 350°. Place the frozen clam strips in a fry basket or carefully lower them into the hot oil using a slotted spoon. Fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
3. Deep Fried Clam Strips
For an indulgent treat, try deep-frying the clam strips. Preheat your deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot with oil to 350°Carefully lower the frozen clam strips into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Enjoy these deep-fried delights with a tangy tartar sauce or a zesty cocktail sauce.
4. Grilled Clam Strips
Grilling is another great way to cook frozen clam strips, imparting a smoky flavor and delicious char marks. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the frozen clam strips onto skewers and brush them with oil to prevent sticking. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, turning occasionally until cooked through and lightly charred. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley.
5. Stovetop Fried Clam Strips
If you don’t have a deep fryer or prefer to cook on the stovetop, pan-frying is an excellent option. Heat about 1/4-inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the frozen clam strips in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and serve with a side of coleslaw and tartar sauce for a classic seafood dish.
6. Baked Clam Strips with Teriyaki Sauce
For an Asian-inspired twist on baked clam strips, try adding a teriyaki glaze. Preheat your oven to 400°F (for a 9 oz package) or 425°F (for 12 oz and 20 oz packages). Arrange the frozen clam strips on a baking sheet and brush them with store-bought or homemade teriyaki sauce.
Bake for 10-12 minutes (9 oz package) 14-15 minutes for half a package (12 oz and 20 oz packages) or 20-21 minutes for a full package, turning once halfway through and brushing with more sauce. Serve with steamed rice and sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
7. Baked Clam Strips with Lemon and Garlic Sauce
Enhance the flavor of your baked clam strips by adding a zesty lemon and garlic sauce. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Preheat your oven to 400°F (for a 9 oz package) or 425°F (for 12 oz and 20 oz packages).
Arrange the frozen clam strips on a baking sheet and brush them with the lemon-garlic sauce. Bake as instructed in the oven-baked clam strips section, turning once halfway through and brushing with more sauce. Serve with a side salad and crusty bread for a delicious seafood feast.
8. Pan Fried Clam Strips with Seafood Sauce
Upgrade your pan-fried clam strips by serving them with a flavorful seafood sauce. In a small saucepan, combine ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Keep warm while you pan-fry the frozen clam strips as described in the stovetop fried clam strips section. Serve the cooked clam strips with the warm seafood sauce for dipping.
The Versatility and Deliciousness of Frozen Clam Strips
Frozen clam strips are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a wide variety of sauces to suit your taste preferences. From classic tartar sauce to spicy cocktail sauce, tangy teriyaki, or zesty lemon-garlic, there’s a sauce for every palate. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavor combinations to find your perfect match.
Clam strips can be served with various sides and accompaniments, depending on how you choose to cook them. Some popular options include coleslaw, French fries, steamed vegetables, rice, or a simple green salad. You can also serve clam strips in a sandwich or wrap for a delicious seafood-inspired lunch option.
What is the difference between clams and clam strips?
The difference between clams and clam strips lies in the fact that clams are whole, while clam strips are pieces of Atlantic surf clam meat processed into strips.
Are clam strips good for you?
Clam strips can be a nutritious food option, as they are a lean source of protein, rich in minerals, vitamins, and Omega-3 fatty acids, and have been found to possess cancer-preventing properties.
What do clam strips taste like?
Clam strips have a silty, almost bitter flavor with a hint of sweetness, and when cooked properly, they should burst in your mouth like an ocean-flavored gusher.
Are clam strips fried clams?
Yes, clam strips are a type of fried clam, made from the foot of a sea clam, battered, and deep-fried until crispy.
