Spicy Garlic Butter Cream Clams Recipe

Introduction

These Spicy Garlic Butter Cream Clams are a delightful puff pastry treat filled with a creamy avocado and tuna mixture. Perfect as an elegant appetizer or a light snack, they combine crisp, golden shells with rich, flavorful filling and a touch of spice.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
• 1 avocado, mashed
• 1 can tuna, drained
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
• 1/2 tsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
• Optional: microgreens, sesame seeds, chili flakes for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Lightly roll out the puff pastry and cut into shell shapes using a scallop cutter or freehand. Make sure to cut in pairs for top and bottom pieces.
3. Step 3: On the top pastry pieces, gently score shallow ridges to mimic the lines of a clam shell.
4. Step 4: Place the bottom pastry shapes on the baking tray, brush the edges with a little water, then place the matching ridged top pieces over them. Lightly press to seal the edges.
5. Step 5: Brush the tops with the egg wash mixture of egg yolk and milk. Bake for 15–18 minutes until the shells are puffed and golden. Let them cool slightly.
6. Step 6: In a bowl, combine the mashed avocado, drained tuna, mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
7. Step 7: Carefully slice the puff pastry shells horizontally and fill each with a spoonful of the tuna-avocado mixture. Top with a slice of hard-boiled egg.
8. Step 8: Garnish with chili flakes, sesame seeds, or microgreens if you like for extra flavor and presentation.
9. Step 9: Serve immediately for best texture or pack in bento boxes for a tasty on-the-go snack.

Tips & Variations

• Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangier, lighter filling.
• If you prefer less spice, omit the chili flakes or substitute with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
• Make the puff pastry shells a day ahead and store in an airtight container to save time.
• Try adding finely chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the tuna mixture for more freshness.

Storage

Store any leftover filled clams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To retain the crispness of the puff pastry, keep the shells separate from the filling and assemble just before serving. Reheat the pastry shells briefly in a warm oven before filling if desired.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh clams instead of canned tuna for this recipe?

This recipe is designed around the ease of canned tuna, which combines well with avocado for a creamy filling. Using fresh clams would require cooking and shelling, which changes the texture and flavor significantly. You could try a cooked clam mixture, but it might be best as a different recipe.

What can I substitute for puff pastry if I don’t have any?

If you don’t have puff pastry, phyllo dough can be a lighter alternative though the texture will be different. Another option is to use pre-made biscuit dough, but expect a less flaky result.

Spicy Garlic Butter Cream Clams Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 89 reviews

• Author: Matteo
• Total Time: 33 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

These delightful Puff Pastry Tuna Avocado Shells are a perfect combination of flaky puff pastry filled with a creamy, zesty tuna and avocado mixture, topped with sliced hard-boiled eggs and optional garnishes. They make an elegant appetizer or a stylish snack, perfect for gatherings or bento boxes.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Puff Pastry Shells

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)

Filling

• 1 avocado, mashed
• 1 can tuna, drained
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
• 1/2 tsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings and Garnish

• 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
• Optional: microgreens
• Optional: sesame seeds
• Optional: chili flakes

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Shape Puff Pastry: Lightly roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet. Using a scallop cutter or freehand, cut the pastry into shell shapes in pairs—one for the bottom and one for the top.
3. Score Top Pastry: On the top pastry pieces, gently score shallow ridges to create the appearance of shell lines, adding a decorative and realistic touch.
4. Assemble Shells: Place the bottom pastry shapes on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the edges lightly with water, then place the matching ridged top pieces on each bottom. Press the edges lightly to seal the shells.
5. Egg Wash and Bake: Brush the assembled puff pastry shells with the egg yolk and milk mixture to ensure a golden, glossy finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes or until puffed up and golden brown. Allow to cool slightly once baked.
6. Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine mashed avocado, drained tuna, mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well blended.
7. Fill Shells: Carefully slice the puff pastry shells horizontally to create room for filling. Spoon a generous amount of the tuna-avocado mixture into the shells.
8. Add Toppings: Place a slice of hard-boiled egg on top of the filling for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
9. Garnish and Serve: Optionally garnish with chili flakes, sesame seeds, or microgreens for added flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately or pack into bento boxes for a portable, stylish meal.

Notes

• Ensure puff pastry is fully thawed but still cold for easier handling and better puff during baking.
• Use fresh lemon juice to brighten the tuna-avocado filling.
• Mayonnaise will give a richer taste, while Greek yogurt adds a tangy, lighter option.
• Egg wash is key to achieving a shiny golden crust; don’t skip it.
• These shells are best served fresh to maintain crispiness but can be packed for later consumption in bento boxes.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Fusion

Keywords: puff pastry, tuna avocado, appetizer, party snack, baked shells, elegant snacks, seafood, easy recipe