If you get invited to a lot of clambakes, you’ve probably noticed that each one can be pretty unique in its clam and seafood offerings. Seeing how different clambakes can be from one backyard to the next, you might be wondering:
“What makes a clambake a clambake?”
“What’s in a classic clambake menu?”
Often, answering the second question answers the first, too, and that’s exactly what we’ll do here. Read on to learn more about the classic clambake menu, from traditional New England clambake recipes to clambake dessert options.
The Essentials: Seafood
A look at the history of the New England clambake shows the importance of seafood. You’ll often find two kinds of seafood in any East Coast clambake you get invited to.
First up are the clams, and choosing the right types of clams for clambakes matters more than you might think. Littlenecks and cherrystone clams are our go-to choices, offering that perfect balance of tenderness and briny flavor. For a truly authentic touch, you might also include steamers (soft-shell clams) with their distinctive sweet taste.
Then, there’s lobster. Lobster adds to clambake catering costs because they’re tricky to prepare.
Lobster cooking techniques for clambakes are crucial and often involve extensive steaming. We steam these crimson beauties until they’re just right, typically taking up to 20 minutes depending on size.
You’ll know they’re perfect when the shell turns bright red and the meat is opaque yet still moist.
Classic New England Clambake Side Dishes
When it comes to New England clambake side dishes, tradition meets taste in the best possible way.
Red potatoes with their skin-on, seasoned with sea salt and fresh herbs, provide the perfect starchy complement to seafood. Meanwhile, sweet corn on the cob (we prefer bi-color or Silver Queen varieties) adds that essential summer sweetness.
The side dish options don’t stop there. Portuguese linguiça or chorizo brings a spicy, smoky element that perfectly balances the briny seafood. And no clambake is complete without fresh coleslaw dressed in a light, tangy dressing.
Alternative Options for Every Guest
Not everyone dives into seafood, and that’s perfectly fine.
At East Coast Clam Bakes, our barbecue offerings include:
Succulent grilled chicken breast marinated with herbs
Colorful vegetable kabobs bursting with seasonal produce
Plant-based sausage options that pack plenty of flavor
Meaty grilled portobello mushrooms that satisfy even the heartiest appetites
Regional Twists on Tradition
While we honor tradition, we also love exploring southern barbecue clambake variations. Think butter-poached shrimp with Cajun seasoning, cornbread instead of corn on the cob, and even smoked sausage for a delicious fusion of flavors.
Washing It All Down: The Best Beverage Pairings for a Clambake
No gathering is ever complete without beverage pairings. That’s why the history of the New England clambake abounds with stories of early settlers sharing cider and beer while waiting for their clams to cook on stones and seaweed.
Today’s beverage pairings for clambakes include classic ales, light lagers (for those watching their calories), wheat beers, and pilsners.
Of course, we’ve come a long way from cooking our clams on heated stones, so our clambake drinks options have evolved quite a bit too. Today’s clambake menus also have wines like crisp sauvignon blanc, unoaked chardonnay, and dry riesling.
Let’s not forget those who “wish to drive home” at the end of the clambake. For this bunch, beverage pairings include sparkling water with citrus, craft sodas, and fresh lemonade.
Sweet Endings: Clambake Dessert Options
The perfect clambake deserves the perfect ending. While the history of the New England clambake tells us that desserts weren’t always part of the tradition, today’s modern celebrations often include them.
There’s much variation in dessert options. But for the most part, among the most popular are classic New England favorites like blueberry pie, strawberry shortcake, and butter cookies.
Planning a Clambake? We’ve Got the Menu, Staff, and Know-How to Make It Happen
From ocean-fresh shellfish to sweet summer corn, from traditional recipes to creative twists, we’ve covered all the elements that make a clambake menu truly special. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, these classic components can be mixed and matched to create your perfect feast.
Are you ready to get cracking? Contact us today or check out our clambake menu.