Use the Microwave for Steamed Clams or Mussels

Make fancy appetizers or an entree in a flash by using your microwave to steam clams or mussels with our basic recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 dozen clams (or 3/4 to 1 pound mussels, scrubbed well)
• 0.25 cup butter (melted)
• Optional: lemon wedges
• Garnish: herbs (to taste)
• Garnish: garlic (to taste)
• Garnish: seasoning (to taste)

Steps

1. Arrange the clams or mussels around the outer rim of a 10- to 12-inch shallow, round, microwave-proof dish, leaving the center open.
2. Cover tightly and cook on high (100 percent) for 2 1/2 to 5 minutes, or until all the shells have opened. Rotate the dish once in the middle of cooking time if necessary.
3. Serve with melted butter, lemon wedges and/or herbs and seasonings, along with the broth from the cooking.