For hundreds of years clambakes have widely existed. Originally introduced by the Native Americans in the New England area, they are now known the world over as New England Clambakes. With the spring season approaching, it's a great time to plan a clambake with close friends and family.

Originally, Native Americans would have their clambakes outside, cooking the food in a pit. The pit was dug, then lined with stones. To create the heat needed to cook fresh seafood, a large fire was lit in the pit, on top of the stones, so the stones could absorb the heat. The clams were then layered on to the hot stones in the pit, followed by potatoes, and lobsters. Between each layer was a layer of fresh seaweed. On top if all went a layer of corn husks to keep the heat in, baking the food.

There are many places that you can order the fresh shellfish in order to have a healthy and fun clam bake. There are actually two different types of clambake orders. Typically they are called a standard clambake and a super deluxe clambake. The standard normally consists of lobster, clams, chowder, and supplies. The super deluxe clambake will usually add mussels and / or shrimp, or another form of fresh shellfish.

Subject to the number of people attending, folks opting to hold a genuine clambake generally have a "super deluxe clambake." Having extra shellfish gives the party a wider appeal, and increases the odds of people going home with full bellies. This, in turn, increases the likelihood of everyone at the clambake having a good time.

Today, modern cooking methods have replaced the old fashion clambake. Now, clambakes are cooked on the stove, or outside on the grill. If you have a fire pit, that is a great place to cook your clambake. Clambakes are a wonderful way to throw an outdoor party, and are extra fun while camping. As an added bonus, outside cooking means minimal clean up!

Since fresh food is inherently healthier than processed food a clambake is going to provide a healthy atmosphere for you and your party. In addition since seafood & shellfish are also very healthy, it adds to the benefit of it being fresh. So not only are clambakes full of fun and a great atmosphere, but they are also healthy for us.

A healthy alternative that would be good for friends or family in spring are Classic American Clambakes. One should know that the idea behind clambake is positive to intrigue many guests and will be the beginning of many new conversations in the midst of a party.