Scallop, Shrimp & Crab Stuffed Clam Shells

Step 1: Seafood ... You want a mix of approximately 2 1/4 cups. But you can mix it up any way you want. I usually get small shrimp and bay scallops since they will be cut up, it isn't necessary to pay a premium price for the extra large. The stuffing mix will freeze well, so if you have leftover, just pop in the freezer. I have found the amounts for the shellfish to work out pretty well. Rough chop the seafood and set off to the side to take the chill off. If using canned crab, sift through the crab to make sure there are no shells or cartilage and drain well.

Step 2: Add the butter to a medium saute pan and bring to medium high heat. Add the shrimp and scallops and cook just 1-2 minutes until the shrimp are pink and the scallops are firm. These are small pieces and don't take more than a minute or two. Remove immediately and add to a bowl with the crab meat. Make sure to add all the butter too.

Step 3: Vegetables ... In the same pan, add the butter (there is extra butter, but this is added to stuffing mix) and bring to medium to medium high heat again. Add in the garlic, celery, onion and cook 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Add in the pimentos, old bay seasoning, lemon juice, mix well and remove from the heat. Let it cool a couple of minutes and add to the seafood, including the butter in the pan too.

Step 4: Breading ... Add the milk to a pie plate and dip each piece of bread for only a second to lightly moisten it. Then break up the bread over the bowl with the vegetables and the seafood. Three (3)-4 pieces should equal about 1 1/2 cups of breading. Add in the parsley, parmesan, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. The stuffing should be moist which is what you want. If it is too moist, add a few dry bread crumbs, only if necessary.

Step 5: Bake ... Whether using clam shells or baking dishes, spray with a non-stick spray and then add the stuffing. About 1 cup per shell or ramiken. Bake on the middle shelf, 350 degree oven for 15-20 minutes. Everything is already cooked you are just warming everything up.

Step 6: Serve ... A grilled steak or fish is perfect with this side dish. Or for me, I love to serve this as a main dish with a bowl of soup and salad. ENJOY!