Clams Casino

24 large Cherrystone clams
2 TBSP. extra virgin olive oil
1 TBSP. butter
1/2 cup yellow onion, minced
1/4 cup green bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup dried bread crumbs
4 slices bacon
1/2 tsp. dried oregano
2 TBSP. grated Parmesan cheese
2 tsp. dried parsley
1/2 tsp. paprika
2 TBSP. extra olive oil

Cook bacon until crisp over medium heat. Crumble, and set aside. Wash clams. Place on a baking sheet and heat in a preheated 350 degree oven for 2 minutes, or until clams open. Discard any that do not open. Remove clam meat from shells, chop, and set aside. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil and butter to a small skillet, and place pan over medium heat. Add onion, pepper, and garlic and saute until tender. Remove from heat, and cool. In a medium bowl, combine bread crumbs, bacon, oregano, cheese, sauteed vegetables, and chopped clams. Stir well. Fill clam shells with mixture, and place on baking sheet. Sprinkle with parsley and paprika. Drizzle with extra olive oil and bake at 450 degrees for about 7 minutes.