Summer Clam Dip

If you’re from New England, you understand the magic of a New England summer. There is just something so special about our seaside towns - when you’re wandering the streets in the summer it feels like they’re straight out of a movie. The quaint little lobster shacks and adorable colonial homes make for the perfect backdrop to summer. And what’s a New England summer without seafood? Our little corner of the U.S. has some of the most incredible fresh seafood, however, you don’t have to live in New England to enjoy this summer snack.

Funny enough, this clam dip started in my family as something my grandparents would make and bring over for Christmas day. We would always look forward to eating it while we exchanged gifts, and it became a beloved tradition in our household. Even after all these years and many Christmases, my family still looks forward to the one time of year we get to make clam dip.

But this got me thinking - it’s a seafood dip, wouldn’t that be perfect for the summer? Since it is made with canned clams, there was nothing stopping us from enjoying this special snack year-round. With the addition of some fresh green onions, this dip is the perfect addition to any summer picnic or afternoon snack. I know what you’re thinking - it doesn’t look all that special. And to that, I say, I agree, but you just need to trust me. This snack is simple but so delicious, and I think that even those who aren’t the biggest seafood lovers will enjoy it. It only takes two ingredients, but I think that is what makes the clams shine in this dish. The green onions on top add a welcomed fresh crunch and lighten the dip to a summery level. If you want a taste of seaside summer, I absolutely recommend giving this a try.

For the dip, you will need two cans of clams in clam juice. This part is important as you will need to use the clam juice from one of the cans - this gives the dip a more seafood-y flavor. Canned clams can come in different sauces so make sure you find the ones in clam juice.

It is also important to get minced clams as this will give the best texture to the dip. Of course, you could mince the clams yourself, but buying them pre-minced saves even more time when whipping up this snack. Once you have your ingredients, you can pop them all in a bowl and mix until combined. The canning process cooks the clams, so there is no cooking required to make this snack, further making it the perfect quick addition to any party or picnic.

I also like to chill the dip for about half an hour to an hour before eating, though this is not required. I just find that it gives the flavors some time to combine, and the dip is definitely the best cold. Though if you’re in a pinch, the dip is usually cool from the chilled cream cheese right after mixing, so you can enjoy it right after you’re done making it. I would also recommend original ruffles to eat the clam dip with - I truly believe every type of dip has the perfect chip to go with it, and original ruffles are the perfect chip for clam dip. Use what you would like, but I think the clam dip experience is elevated with ruffles.

Although this dip is simple, it’s absolutely delicious and the perfect way to experience a New England summer, no matter where you live. I hope that you enjoy it as much as I do!