Place 4-6 whole clams in shell on a microwave safe plate and cover with paper towel

Microwave on high until the clams begin to open. Stop cooking and remove when they open about 1/2 an inch. Usually takes about 30-90 seconds, depending on the microwave.
Do not overcook - when they start to open, they are done!

Place a bit of butter inside the shell opening while hot. If desired, this is the time to also hit the clams with lemon or tabasco. The clams will baste in the butter and will be perfect to eat in about 1 minute

Excellent with cocktail sauce, or vinegar or tabasco sauce

The microwave is probably the best clam cooking device around and produces a fantastic experience for clam lovers

Clam Safety:

Clams in shell should be alive or at least fresh when cooked, as they can foul quickly. Clams should be tightly closed when alive. They can remain alive in the refrigerator for up to 7 days (38º-40º F). If shell is open or does not tightly close when tapped on, discard it.

Live clams may also be frozen in a heavy freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Clams should be washed before cooking by scrubbing shell under cold water.