Clam pizza is a delightful twist on the classic pie, offering a unique blend of flavors from the sea. This pizza is popular in coastal areas, particularly in New England, where fresh clams are abundant. The combination of briny clams, garlic, herbs, and a crisp, chewy crust creates an unforgettable culinary experience. Perfect for seafood lovers, this pizza is a refreshing change from traditional toppings and pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine or a cold beer.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
- 1 pre-made pizza dough (or homemade, if preferred)
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cornmeal for dusting
Instructions:
- Prepare the Clams: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add the clams and white wine, then cover the skillet. Cook until the clams open, about 5-7 minutes. Discard any clams that do not open. Remove the clams from their shells and set aside, reserving the cooking liquid.
- Prepare the Pizza Dough: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat. Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer the dough to a pizza peel dusted with cornmeal.
- Assemble the Pizza: Brush the dough with the remaining olive oil, then sprinkle with a little salt and pepper. Spread the clams evenly over the dough, then drizzle with some of the reserved cooking liquid. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the clams.
- Bake the Pizza: Slide the pizza onto the hot pizza stone or a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley and basil. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the pizza. Enjoy your clam pizza with a squeeze of lemon for an added burst of flavor!
