Looking to impress your special someone this Valentine’s Day? This decadent dish of clams in a garlic butter and wine sauce will have them falling in love with every bite.

Why I love this dish? With succulent, tender clams simmered in a rich, buttery garlic sauce and a splash of white wine, this dish is the perfect romantic dinner. Serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up every last drop, and you’ll have a meal that’s as unforgettable as the evening itself.

Pro Tips for Making Clams in Garlic-Butter and Wine Sauce

Choose Fresh Clams
The key to a delicious dish is freshness. Make sure to buy clams that are fresh and properly stored. Look for tightly closed shells, as open shells may indicate the clams are dead. If you find any open clams, tap them gently, if they don’t close, discard them.
Purge the Clams Properly
To remove any sand or grit from the clams, place them in a bowl of cold saltwater for at least 20 minutes before cooking. This will help ensure your clams stay clean and that no gritty texture gets into your sauce. Then rinse 2 to 3 times in fresh cold water. Lay them on a cooling rack or a paper towel-lined tray to dry.
Don’t Overcook the Clams
Clams cook very quickly, so be sure to avoid overcooking them. Overcooked clams can become tough and rubbery. Cook them just until their shells open, usually within 5 to 7 minutes after adding them to the pot.
Use High-Quality Olive Oil and Butter
The garlic-butter sauce is the base of this recipe, so using high-quality extra virgin olive oil and butter will give the sauce a rich, smooth flavor. Adding a splash of wine enhances the taste and makes the sauce more aromatic.
Garlic and Wine Combo
When sautéing the garlic in olive oil, don’t let it brown too much, as this can cause a bitter flavor. White wine adds depth to the sauce, while the garlic brings out an aromatic, savory richness. Dry white wines are ideal for this dish as they balance the richness of the butter and enhance the briny sweetness of the clams.
Add Fresh Herbs
Fresh parsley or tarragon not only add vibrant color to the dish but also elevate the flavors. Chopthe fresh herbs right before serving to preserve its bright taste.
Serve with Crusty Bread
One of the best ways to enjoy clams in garlic-butter and wine sauce is by dipping a crusty baguette or sourdough bread into the sauce. This will allow you to savor every last drop of the delicious garlic-butter sauce.

Wine Pairing for Clams in Garlic-Butter and Wine Sauce

When it comes to wine pairing for clams, you’ll want to choose wines that complement the briny sweetness of the clams and the richness of the garlic-butter sauce. Here are some of the best wine pairings for Clams in Garlic-Butter and Wine Sauce:

Sauvignon Blanc
A crisp, dry Sauvignon Blanc with its fresh acidity is the perfect match for clams. The wine’s citrus and green fruit notes cut through the richness of the butter and enhance the freshness of the seafood.
Pinot Grigio
Another great option for seafood is Pinot Grigio. It’s light, clean, and slightly fruity, which complements the delicate flavors of clams without overpowering them. This white wine also works beautifully with the garlic and herbs in the sauce.
Chardonnay (Unoaked)
An unoaked Chardonnay has the right amount of richness and acidity to pair with garlic-butter clams. Its smooth texture complements the butter, and its crisp finish balances the richness of the dish.
Vermentino
For something a little more unique, try a glass of Vermentino. This Italian white wine offers bright acidity with notes of citrus and herbs, making it an excellent choice for seafood dishes like clams.
Albariño
Hailing from Spain, Albariño is a crisp and aromatic white wine that pairs wonderfully with seafood. Its zesty citrus flavors and minerality complement the briny clams and elevate the garlic-butter sauce.