STEAMED CLAMS WITH GARLIC-PARSLEY BUTTER AND LEEKS

Steamed Clams With Garlic-Parsley Butter and Leeks image

Provided by David Tanis

Time 20m

Yield 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 11

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1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), softened
1 cup roughly chopped parsley, leaves and tender stems
1 or 2 small garlic cloves, grated or minced
Kosher salt and black pepper
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 cup chopped leeks (from 2 medium leeks), white and light green parts only
24 littleneck clams, scrubbed and rinsed (about 2 to 3 pounds)
1 1/2 cups dry white wine
1/2 teaspoon grated lime zest
2 tablespoons lime juice
Lime wedges, for garnish

Steps:

Make the garlic butter: Combine butter, parsley and garlic in a food processor. Whiz until bright green and well incorporated, about 1 minute. Season lightly with salt and pepper. (You may make the garlic butter in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 2 weeks, but it tastes best freshly made.)
Set a wide, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add olive oil and swirl to coat. Add leeks, stir to coat, and cook for 30 seconds, then add clams and wine.
Turn heat to high, cover and cook for 5 to 8 minutes, until all clams have opened. With a slotted spoon or tongs, transfer clams to individual bowls.
In the same skillet, over medium heat, add lime zest, lime juice and butter, and let simmer briefly, about 30 seconds, until warmed through. Pour sauce over clams, garnish with lime wedges and serve.