Clams Casino – It's Not Gambling, if You Know You're Going to Win

Last month I saw a breathtakingly beautiful clams casino photo (lower right) by the one and only Jaden Hair from Steamy Kitchen.

They were so sexy, so tantalizing, so enticing, I was literally salivating at the thought of slurping one down. It was pure food porn on the half shell.

Clams casino is one of my all-time favorite things to eat, and Jaden's post had me wondering why it had been so long since I'd made some. I decided a video recipe for this American classic was in order, especially since we're in the heart of the holiday party season.

Not only is clams casino an easy recipe to prepare, it can be made ahead of time and popped into the broiler whenever you're ready.

The ethereal combination of butter, garlic, bacon, and clams is ridiculously delicious. Make a few trays of these, put some champagne on ice, and get ready to hear a whole lot of "what a great party!"

Thanks to Jaden for the idea, and for letting me post her luscious photo. You can check out her clams casino post here, and get another steamy take on this great appetizer. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 12 medium-sized (about 2 1/2-inches) littleneck clams
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 strips center-cut bacon, each sliced into 6 equal pieces
• 2 tablespoon finely diced red bell pepper
• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1/4 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon finely grated Parmesan
• freshly ground black pepper
• pinch of salt
• chopped flat leaf parsley
• lemon wedges
• rock salt as needed