Name: Herb Cheese, White Wine, and Littleneck Clam Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 2 tbsp unsalted butter; ½ cup Scallions; 2 cups dry white wine; 1 pkg garlic and herb cheese spread; 36 Littleneck Clams; 2 cups heavy cream; ¼ tsp salt; ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper; ¼ cup fresh Italian parsley

Immerse yourself in the world of refined flavors with this exclusive recipe of Herb Cheese, White Wine, and Littleneck Clam Soup. A delightful blend of aromatic herbs, creamy cheese, and fresh clams invigorated with the crispness of white wine, it is an elixir of culinary delight that will satiate your cravings for a luxurious seafood soup.

Photos of Herb Cheese, White Wine, and Littleneck Clam Soup Recipe

Littleneck clams, a key ingredient for this recipe, might not be readily available in your pantry. These are small, hard-shell clams often used in pasta, chowders, and soups. When at the supermarket, look for them in the seafood section. Garlic and herb cheese spread is another unique ingredient, usually found in the cheese or dairy aisle. It adds creaminess and a burst of flavor to the soup.

Ingredients for Herb Cheese, White Wine, and Littleneck Clam Soup

Unsalted butter: Adds a creamy, rich flavor to the soup and is used to sauté the scallions.

Scallions: Also known as spring onions, they add a mild, sweet flavor.

Dry white wine: Enhances the flavor of the soup and adds a hint of acidity.

Garlic and herb cheese spread: Infuses the soup with a cheesy texture and an array of herb and garlic flavors.

Littleneck clams: The star of the soup, they are juicy and have a sweet, briny flavor.

Heavy cream: Adds a velvety smoothness to the soup.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the soup.

Freshly ground black pepper: Gives a mild heat to balance the soup's flavors.

Fresh Italian parsley: Used as a garnish, it adds a touch of freshness and color.

One reader, Bailey Fulmer says:

This herb cheese, white wine, and littleneck clam soup recipe is a game-changer! The flavors blend perfectly, creating a rich and comforting dish. The combination of creamy cheese, aromatic herbs, and tender clams in a white wine broth is simply divine. It's a must-try for any seafood lover!

Bailey Fulmer

Techniques Required for Making Herb Cheese, White Wine, and Littleneck Clam Soup

How to sauté scallions: In a 3-quart saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the scallions and sauté until softened for about 2 minutes.

How to whisk in cheese and wine: After adding 1 cup of wine and the cheese spread, whisk until the cheese is fully melted. Gradually whisk in the remaining 1 cup of wine until the mixture is smooth.

How to cook littleneck clams: Once the mixture is brought to a boil, add the littleneck clams and cover tightly. Cook until the clams start to open, which should take about 5 minutes.

How to incorporate heavy cream: After the clams have started to open, add the heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure that all the closed or partially opened clams are free to open fully.

How to finish and serve: Once the clams have fully opened, discard any unopened clams. Sprinkle the soup with fresh Italian parsley and ladle it into warmed bowls.

How To Make Herb Cheese, White Wine, and Littleneck Clam Soup

This clam soup is made even tastier with some herb cheese, cream, and dry white wine. In 30 minutes, you have an elegant and truly impressive dish.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tbspunsalted butter
½cupscallions,chopped
2cupsdry white wine
1pkggarlic and herb cheese spread,imported
36Littleneck Clams
2cupsheavy cream
¼tspsalt
¼tspfreshly ground black pepper
¼cupfresh Italian parsley,chopped for garnish

Instructions

Melt the butter in a 3-quart saucepan over medium heat.
Add the scallions and sauté for about 2 minutes until softened.
Add 1 cup wine and the cheese and whisk until the cheese is melted.
Gradually whisk in the remaining 1 cup wine until the mixture is smooth.
Heat to boiling, add the clams, and cover tightly.
Cook for 5 minutes until the clams start to open.
Add the cream, salt, and pepper.
Stir well so all the closed or partially opened clams are free to open fully.
Cover tightly and cook for 5 more minutes until the clams open.
Discard any unopened clams.
Sprinkle the soup with parsley and ladle into warmed bowls.

Nutrition

Calories: 876.80kcal
Fat: 67.84g
Saturated Fat: 40.90g
Trans Fat: 0.84g
Monounsaturated Fat: 18.55g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.83g
Carbohydrates: 12.95g
Fiber: 0.49g
Sugar: 4.92g
Protein: 33.98g
Cholesterol: 267.94mg
Sodium: 1159.09mg
Calcium: 489.47mg
Potassium: 329.29mg
Iron: 2.98mg
Vitamin A: 807.37µg
Vitamin C: 8.05mg

Essential Technique for Enhancing the Flavor of Clam Soup

When preparing your littleneck clams, it's important to give them a good rinse under cold water to remove any sand or grit. If any clams are open before cooking, give them a gentle tap. If they don't close, discard them as they are likely dead and not safe to eat. Also, remember to discard any clams that do not open after cooking. This ensures that you're only consuming the freshest and safest clams in your soup.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Clam Soup Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and clean clams in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-shucked clams: Save time by using pre-shucked clams instead of shucking them yourself.

Multi-task: While the soup is simmering, prepare a side salad or set the table to make the most of your time in the kitchen.

Organize ingredients: Arrange all the ingredients and utensils needed for the recipe before you start cooking to avoid last-minute searches.

Quick cheese alternative: If you're short on time, consider using a pre-made garlic and herb cheese spread instead of making it from scratch.

Substitute Ingredients For Herb Cheese, White Wine, and Littleneck Clam Soup Recipe

herb cheese spread - Substitute with cream cheese with mixed herbs: Cream cheese with mixed herbs can provide a similar creamy texture and herb flavor to the dish.
white wine - Substitute with chicken or vegetable broth: Chicken or vegetable broth can add depth of flavor and moisture to the dish, similar to white wine.
littleneck clams - Substitute with mussels: Mussels can be a suitable substitute for littleneck clams, providing a similar briny and seafood flavor to the soup.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Clam Soup

Saucepan: A deep cooking vessel with a handle and often a lid, used for cooking soups, sauces, and other liquids.
Whisk: A kitchen tool used for whipping and mixing ingredients together, often with a handle and a series of loops or wires.
Ladle: A large, long-handled spoon with a deep bowl, used for serving soups, stews, and other liquids.
Knife: A sharp-edged tool used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Cutting board: A sturdy board used as a surface for cutting and preparing food.
Measuring cup: A container used for measuring liquid or dry ingredients.
Mixing spoon: A long-handled spoon used for stirring and mixing ingredients.
Tongs: A kitchen tool with two arms and a pivot, used for gripping and lifting hot or delicate items.
Strainer: A device used for separating liquids from solids, often with a mesh or perforated surface.
Soup bowls: Bowls used for serving and enjoying soup.

How To Reheat Leftover Clam Soup

The best way to reheat leftover herb cheese, white wine, and littleneck clam soup is to use a saucepan on the stovetop over low to medium heat. This method allows for gentle reheating, which helps preserve the delicate flavors and textures of the clams and prevents the cream from curdling.
Transfer the leftover soup to a saucepan and place it on the stove over low to medium heat. Stir the soup occasionally to ensure even heating and to prevent scorching on the bottom of the pan.
As the soup begins to heat up, keep a close eye on it and stir more frequently. The goal is to reheat the soup until it is just steaming and the clams are warmed through. Avoid bringing the soup to a boil, as this can cause the cream to curdle and the clams to become tough and rubbery.
If you find that the soup has thickened too much during storage, you can add a splash of white wine or heavy cream to help thin it out and restore its original consistency. Be sure to stir well after adding any additional liquids.
Once the soup is heated through and the clams are warm, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may want to add a pinch of salt, black pepper, or some freshly chopped parsley to brighten up the flavors.
When the soup is ready, ladle it into warmed bowls and serve immediately. Enjoy your reheated herb cheese, white wine, and littleneck clam soup as a comforting and delicious meal.

Fascinating Fact About Littleneck Clams Used in This Recipe

The soup is a delightful combination of herb cheese, white wine, and littleneck clams, creating a rich and flavorful dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

Is Making Herb Cheese, White Wine, and Littleneck Clam Soup Cost-Effective?

This herb cheese, white wine, and littleneck clam soup recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of littleneck clams and dry white wine may increase the cost, but the dish offers a luxurious dining experience. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $40-$50. The rich flavors and elegant presentation make it worth the investment for a special occasion. On a scale of 1-10, this recipe earns an 8 for its taste and sophistication, making it a delightful choice for a memorable meal.

Is This Clam Soup Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe for herb cheese, white wine, and littleneck clam soup is a decadent and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option. Here's why:

The recipe calls for a significant amount of heavy cream and butter, which are high in saturated fat and calories.
The garlic and herb cheese spread likely contains additional saturated fat and sodium.
White wine, while adding depth to the flavor profile, also contributes to the overall calorie count.

On the positive side, littleneck clams are a good source of lean protein, iron, and vitamin B12. The addition of scallions and parsley provides some vitamins and minerals, but in relatively small amounts compared to the other ingredients.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative, such as half-and-half or evaporated skim milk, to reduce the saturated fat content.
Use a reduced-fat garlic and herb cheese spread, or opt for a homemade version using low-fat cream cheese and fresh herbs.
Decrease the amount of butter used, or substitute it with a heart-healthy oil like olive oil.
Include more vegetables in the soup, such as diced tomatoes, carrots, or celery, to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
Serve the soup with a side salad or whole-grain bread to make it a more balanced meal.

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Clam Soup Recipe

This herb cheese, white wine, and littleneck clam soup recipe is a delightful combination of flavors. The use of dry white wine and herb cheese creates a rich and aromatic base for the soup, while the littleneck clams add a delicate brininess. The addition of heavy cream brings a luxurious creaminess, and the fresh Italian parsley provides a bright, herbaceous finish. The cooking method ensures that the clams are perfectly cooked and tender. Overall, this soup is a sophisticated and elegant dish that would make a stunning starter for a special meal.

Enhance Your Herb Cheese, White Wine, and Littleneck Clam Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and butter, perfect for soaking up the flavorful soup

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus grilled to perfection and topped with a zesty lemon dressing, a refreshing and light side to accompany the rich soup

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Crispy Brussels sprouts roasted to caramelized perfection and drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze, a delightful contrast to the creamy soup

Similar Soup Recipes to Try If You Love Clams

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: This creamy mushroom risotto is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of earthy mushrooms and creamy risotto makes for a satisfying meal.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi: Garlic butter shrimp scampi is a quick and easy dish that is bursting with flavor. The combination of garlic, butter, and shrimp creates a delicious and indulgent meal that is perfect for any occasion.

Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake: Lemon blueberry cheesecake is a refreshing and tangy dessert that is perfect for spring and summer. The combination of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries creates a delightful and indulgent treat that is sure to impress.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Herb Cheese, White Wine, and Littleneck Clam Soup

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a rich and creamy mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a delicious start to any meal.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with crispy slices of toasted baguette topped with a flavorful mixture of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil. This classic Italian dish is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant colors and bold flavors.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and creamy texture will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

Berry Parfait: Layered with fresh berries, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. Each spoonful offers a burst of fruity goodness and a satisfying crunch.

Why trust this Herb Cheese, White Wine, and Littleneck Clam Soup Recipe:

This recipe uses littleneck clams which are known for their sweet and tender meat, ensuring a delightful seafood flavor. The combination of dry white wine and herb cheese spread creates a rich and savory base, while the addition of fresh Italian parsley adds a burst of freshness. The use of unsalted butter and heavy cream contributes to a luxurious and creamy texture. These high-quality ingredients, when combined, result in a flavorful and indulgent soup that is sure to impress.

Share your thoughts on this Herb Cheese, White Wine, and Littleneck Clam Soup Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of wine for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a different type of white wine if you prefer. A dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay would work well in this recipe.

Can I substitute the littleneck clams with another type of seafood?

Absolutely! You can substitute littleneck clams with other seafood like mussels, shrimp, or even chunks of white fish. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for the white wine?

If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute the white wine with an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth. This will alter the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time. However, I recommend adding the clams and parsley just before serving to ensure the freshest flavor and texture.

How do I properly clean and prepare the clams before cooking?

Before cooking, scrub the clams under cold running water to remove any sand or debris. Discard any clams with broken shells or that do not close when tapped. It's also a good idea to soak the clams in cold water for 20 minutes to allow them to expel any sand or grit.