While there’s nothing wrong with hamburgers and hot dogs, it doesn’t get any more red, white, and blue than an old-fashioned clambake. But you don’t need sand and surf to prepare this traditional New England-style meal. We’ll detail how to enjoy a 4th of July clambake in your own backyard, with recipes and decorating ideas to wow your guests.
How to Have a 4th of July Clambake at Home
Don’t worry; how to do a clambake at home doesn’t involve digging a hole in your yard or stoking flames for hours. Your trusty barbeque or stove are all you need to recreate these classic American flavors. Add our suggestions for decorations, drinks, and desserts and you’ve got an easy 4th of July clambake that’s truly made in the USA.
Backyard 4th of July Clambake
You can’t have a clambake for the 4th of July without clams, potatoes and corn. These traditional components cook together in one pot on the grill or stove, combining their distinctive flavors. While you can add seaweed to the pot for some classic briny tang, shallots and white wine also complement each ingredient.
Here’s how to prepare the clams that star in your 4th of July show:
Ingredients:
- Clams
- Small red potatoes
- Husked Corn
- White wine
- Shallots
- Seaweed (optional)
If using, layer seaweed in the bottom of a large stockpot. Add water and white wine and bring to a boil on a stove or grill. Add the potatoes and shallots, cover and lower the heat to a simmer, cooking for 5-10 minutes. Layer the clams on top of the potatoes and place the husked corn on top. Cook, covered, for another 10-14 minutes, or until the clams are open. Serve the clams, corn, and potatoes family-style alongside cups of broth and melted butter for dipping.
Clambake Recipes
Sides
4th of July clambake recipes that complement the main course can create an instant celebration. Traditionally, the clams can be accompanied by grilled lobsters, hot dogs, or Linguica or chorizo sausage.
Drinks
Looking to cleanse your palate with a cool beverage? We suggest this refreshing cranberry iced tea or fresh lemonade.
Dessert
As for a sweet treat to end your 4th of July clambake, chocolate chip cookies, brownies or an ice cream sundae bar can certainly please any crowd. But there’s truly nothing as American as apple pie. This apple crumb pie recipe uses a premade crust and a brown sugar crumble topping that’s all too easy to assemble and eat.
4th Of July Clambake Decorating Ideas
4th of July clambake ideas certainly call for some red, white, and blue decor in honor of Old Glory. Here’s how to combine a little patriotism with some seafaring touches for festive flare:
- Cover tables in traditional red and white checked tablecloths with blue flatware, glasses, or plates.
- Accent table with seashells, sand dollars or red, white, and blue stars.
- Serve the clams, potatoes, and corn on large trays or platters as a showstopping table centerpiece.
- Tuck small, wet towels inside hollowed-out lemons for each guest to cleanse and refresh their hands.
- Print out individual menus in red, white, and blue ink.
We hope these ideas for a 4th of July clambake at home add to your enjoyment of our favorite summer holiday. From all of us at Same Day Service Company, have a safe and Happy 4th!
