Creamy Clam Dip

Ingredients

  • - FOR THE CLAM DIP -
  • 1 (8 ounce) can minced clams
  • 1 clove garlic (cut in half)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice (fresh is best)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • Dash of Tabasco sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Dash of ground black pepper
  • Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper
  • - FOR THE HOMEMADE PITA CHIPS -
  • 2 (6 inch) pita loaves
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons olive oil
  • Dash of Kosher salt (to taste)
  • Dash of freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Cooking Instructions

Clam Dip Preparation: Step 1: Drain the minced clams, reserving 1/4 cup of the liquid.

Step 2: Rub a medium serving bowl with the cut sides of the garlic halves.

Step 3: In a mixing bowl with an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese until it is smooth & creamy.

Step 4: Add the remaining ingredients to the cream cheese along with the reserved 1/4 cup of clam juice.  Stir until the ingredients are thoroughly blended.

Step 5: Spoon the clam dip in the serving bowl.  Cover & refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.

Pita Chip Preparation: Step 1: Slice the two 6-inch pita loaves in half horizontally and brush each round (on the rough side) with about 1 1/2 teaspoons of olive oil.  If desired, sprinkle lightly with Kosher salt and garlic powder.

Step 2: Slice each of the four rounds into 6 or 8 wedges.  Arrange the wedges on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.

Step 3: Bake in a preheated 400 degree F oven for about 6 to 8 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.

Step 4: Cool and store in an airtight container until serving time.

Enjoy this crowd-pleasing appetizer from TheSpruceEats!