clams

Four types of seafood – clams, mussels, fish and shrimp – are combined in this classic Italian American stew. Save some of the fronds from the fennel bulb for a delicate anise flavor and garnish.

Clams are popular as warm tapas in Spain. Cooked with lots of garlic and sherry, they are always served with crusty bread to sop up the delicious juices. Use a dry or semi-dry sherry, such as Fino, and follow the Spanish maxim: Never cook with a sherry you wouldn’t drink.

Sorrel’s lemony flavor is a perfect pairing for briny shellfish, such as clams. This recipe easily serves four as an elegant appetizer; to make it a meal, toss the 
clams and broth with 8 oz (4 cups cooked) whole-grain linguine.

The simple yet sophisticated flavors of butter, white wine, garlic and tomatoes elevate this clam linguine to an indulgent meal. Steamed broccoli rabe makes a great side for this dish.

Paella is composed of rice, meat and vegetables. In Valencia, where it's said to have originated, paellas are almost always single-protein dishes. Here in America, however, we like to mix fish, chicken and pork. Throw in some vegetables and you have a complete good-for-you one-dish meal.