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Harissa Clams with Cherry Tomatoes and White Wine

This harissa-infused clam dish is quick, flavorful, and versatile. Serve it as an appetizer or pair it with crusty bread, couscous, or rice for a filling main.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the clams:

  • 2 lbs fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons harissa paste
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (or vegetable broth)
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable stock

For garnish:

  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Crusty bread, rice, couscous, or cooked pasta for serving

Instructions

  1. Prep the clams:
    • Scrub and rinse clams under cold water. Soak in salted water for 20-30 minutes to purge sand.
  2. Sauté aromatics:
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and red bell pepper, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).
  3. Add flavor:
    • Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, and harissa paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Build the broth:
    • Add cherry tomatoes, white wine, and stock. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  5. Cook the clams:
    • Increase heat to medium-high. Add clams to the pot, cover with a lid, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the clams open. Discard any clams that remain closed.
  6. Finish the dish:
    • Squeeze lemon juice over the clams and garnish with fresh parsley.
  7. Serve:
    • Serve immediately with crusty bread, rice, or couscous to soak up the flavorful broth.

Notes

Equipment:

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Chef’s knife
  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon