Ingredients
24 clams (about 7 1/2 pounds), preferably cherrystones, scrubbed and shucked, shells discarded
1/2 baguette, thinly sliced on the bias to yield 24 slices
Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup minced shallots (2 large)
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh oregano
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
1 strip bacon, thinly sliced crosswise
Preparation
Place clams in 1 layer on a baking dish, and refrigerate. Preheat oven to 400 degrees, and place rack in middle position. Place bread on a baking sheet, drizzle with oil, and sprinkle with salt. Bake until toasted, about 5 minutes. Remove, and let cool. Turn oven to broil.
Place butter in a small bowl, and mix until very smooth. Stir in shallots, garlic, oregano, parsley, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper until incorporated. Spoon 1 teaspoon butter mixture on top of each clam, spreading to cover, and top with a few pieces of bacon.
Broil until clams are cooked and bacon is crisp, about 6 minutes. Transfer 1 clam and some juice to each toast. Broil 1 minute more; serve immediately.
