One order of Clam Strips contains 869 calories. These crispy fried strips of clams are loved by many as a seafood favorite. However, it's essential to be mindful of their calorie count and nutritional value.

Clam strips are a good source of protein, but they are also high in cholesterol and sodium. Each serving size contains 235mg of cholesterol and 1514mg of sodium. Fried foods, in general, are not the healthiest options when trying to maintain a balanced diet.

In this article, we will share some essential tips and strategies related to clam strips' nutritional value, ingredients, and healthier ways to prepare them.

What are Clam Strips?

Clam strips are thin slices of clam meat that are coated with a bread crumb mixture and then deep-fried until golden brown. They are easy to prepare and serve and can be found in many seafood restaurants, grocery stores, and fast-food chains. Clam strips originated in the United States in the 1950s and gained popularity throughout the country as an affordable and delicious seafood choice. They are usually served with tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or lemon wedges.

How Many Clam Strips are in an Order?

The number of clam strips per order can vary depending on where you order them. However, the average number of clam strips in a serving size is between 14 to 18 pieces. It's crucial to note that one order could contain as many as 30 clam strips, resulting in a higher calorie intake.

Calories in Clam Strips

One order of clam strips contains 869 calories, 63g of fat, 51g of carbs, and 29g of protein. Most of the calories come from the fat content, which is mainly from the deep-frying process. A serving size of clam strips can be equivalent to a full meal, leading to overeating and weight gain if not consumed in moderation.

Are Clam Strips Nutritious?

Clam strips can be a good source of protein and minerals such as iron and calcium. However, they are also high in cholesterol, saturated fat, and sodium, making them not the healthiest seafood option. To make them more nutritious, you can try different cooking methods such as baking, grilling, or air-frying instead of deep-frying.

What are the Ingredients in Clam Strips?

The ingredients in clam strips usually include clams, wheat flour, cornstarch, vegetable oil, breadcrumbs, salt, and spices. Some restaurants or brands may use different variations of the mixture, but these are the standard ingredients used in making clam strips.

Healthier Ways to Prepare Clam Strips

To make clam strips healthier, you can try cooking them in different ways. Here are a few options: 1. Baking: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Dip the clam strips in egg wash and a seasoned breadcrumb mixture. Place them on a baking sheet that has been lightly sprayed with cooking spray. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. 2. Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Brush the clam strips with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle with your desired seasonings. Place the clam strips on the grill grates and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.

What is the Recommended Serving Size?

The recommended serving size for clam strips is around 6 to 8 pieces, depending on their size. Eating more than that can lead to consuming too many calories and unhealthy amounts of cholesterol and sodium.

Alternatives to Clam Strips

If you are looking for healthier seafood options, there are plenty of alternatives to clam strips. Here are a few: 1. Grilled Shrimp: Grilled shrimp is a great alternative to clam strips as they are low in calories and high in protein. 2. Baked Salmon: Baked salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and can be seasoned with different flavors.

How to Burn Off the Calories from Clam Strips

If you want to burn off the calories from one order of clam strips, you can try the following exercises: 1. Running: Running at a moderate pace (8 minutes per mile) can burn around 950 calories per hour. 2. Swimming: Swimming can burn around 700-800 calories per hour, depending on the intensity of the workout.

Is it Safe to Eat Clam Strips?

If you are allergic to shellfish, then it's not safe to eat clam strips. Otherwise, if they are cooked correctly and from a reputable source, there are no significant safety concerns. The deep-frying process can be harmful to your health if not done correctly or in moderation.