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Escargot
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Escargot

Helix pomatia

Clinical Encyclopedia

Escargot, or snails, are a delicacy in many cuisines, particularly in French cooking. They are rich in protein and low in fat, making them a unique source of nutrition.

Scientific NameHelix pomatia
Region of OriginFrance

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories90 kcal
Water
80%
Fiber0g
Total17.4g
Protein
16g(92%)
Fats
1.4g(8%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Health Benefits

High in protein, escargot provides essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth.
Rich in vitamin B12, which is crucial for nerve function and the production of DNA and red blood cells.
Contains antioxidants such as vitamin E, which help protect cells from oxidative stress.
Low in calories and carbohydrates, making them a suitable option for weight management.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Individuals with shellfish allergies should avoid escargot as they may trigger allergic reactions.
!Improperly cooked snails can carry parasites, so it's essential to ensure they are sourced from reputable suppliers.

How to Prepare & Consume

Escargot is best prepared by baking in garlic butter and herbs, which enhances their flavor. Ensure they are thoroughly cooked to eliminate any potential parasites.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose fresh escargots that are alive and active. Avoid any that have a strong odor or are not moving.

How to Store

Store live escargots in a cool, moist environment, such as a refrigerator, and consume them within a few days.

Myths vs Realities

MythEscargot is only for gourmet dining.+
RealityEscargot can be enjoyed in various culinary settings, from casual to fine dining.
MythAll snails are edible.+
RealityOnly specific species of snails are safe to eat; others can be toxic.
MythEscargot is high in cholesterol.+
RealityEscargot is low in cholesterol compared to many other meats.

Healthy Recipes

Garlic Herb Escargot with Quinoa

A delightful dish of escargot sautéed in garlic and fresh herbs served over a bed of protein-packed quinoa, perfect for a healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 12 escargot (Helix pomatia)
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  3. 3. Add escargot, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper; cook for 5 minutes.
  4. 4. Serve escargot over cooked quinoa and garnish with additional herbs.

Escargot Salad with Avocado and Citrus

A refreshing salad featuring escargot, creamy avocado, and a zesty citrus dressing, making it a light yet satisfying option.

Ingredients
  • 12 escargot (Helix pomatia)
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • 2 cups mixed greens
  • 1 orange, segmented
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook escargot in boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine mixed greens, avocado, and orange segments.
  3. 3. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper; drizzle over salad.
  4. 4. Top with escargot and serve immediately.

Spicy Escargot Tacos with Cabbage Slaw

These unique tacos feature escargot with a spicy twist, complemented by a crunchy cabbage slaw for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Ingredients
  • 12 escargot (Helix pomatia)
  • 4 small corn tortillas
  • 1 cup green cabbage, shredded
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 1 tablespoon chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Sauté escargot in a pan with chili sauce for 3-4 minutes.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix cabbage, carrot, lime juice, and salt to make the slaw.
  3. 3. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet.
  4. 4. Assemble tacos by placing escargot and slaw in each tortilla, garnishing with cilantro.

Escargot Stuffed Bell Peppers

Bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of escargot, brown rice, and spices, baked to perfection for a nutritious and filling dish.

Ingredients
  • 12 escargot (Helix pomatia)
  • 2 large bell peppers, halved
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté escargot with paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Mix escargot with cooked brown rice and stuff into halved bell peppers.
  4. 4. Bake for 25 minutes until peppers are tender.

Escargot and Spinach Frittata

A protein-rich frittata featuring escargot and fresh spinach, perfect for a healthy breakfast or brunch option.

Ingredients
  • 12 escargot (Helix pomatia)
  • 6 eggs
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté escargot and spinach until wilted.
  3. 3. Whisk eggs with salt and pepper, then pour over the escargot and spinach.
  4. 4. Cook on the stovetop for 5 minutes, then transfer to the oven to bake for 10 minutes.

Mediterranean Escargot Pasta

Whole grain pasta tossed with escargot, cherry tomatoes, olives, and a light olive oil dressing for a healthy Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Ingredients
  • 12 escargot (Helix pomatia)
  • 8 oz whole grain pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup olives, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  2. 2. In a skillet, sauté escargot with cherry tomatoes and olives for 5 minutes.
  3. 3. Toss cooked pasta with the escargot mixture and olive oil.
  4. 4. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Escargot and Vegetable Stir-Fry

A colorful stir-fry featuring escargot and a variety of vegetables, tossed in a light soy sauce for a quick and healthy dinner.

Ingredients
  • 12 escargot (Helix pomatia)
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions
  1. 1. In a wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat.
  2. 2. Add escargot and vegetables; stir-fry for 5-7 minutes.
  3. 3. Pour in soy sauce and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  4. 4. Serve hot over brown rice or quinoa.

Escargot and Sweet Potato Hash

A hearty breakfast hash made with diced sweet potatoes, escargot, and spices, providing a nutritious start to your day.

Ingredients
  • 12 escargot (Helix pomatia)
  • 1 large sweet potato, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion until translucent.
  2. 2. Add diced sweet potato, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; cook until tender.
  3. 3. Stir in escargot and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  4. 4. Serve warm, optionally topped with a poached egg.

Escargot and Cauliflower Rice Bowl

A low-carb bowl featuring escargot served over cauliflower rice, mixed with fresh vegetables and a light dressing.

Ingredients
  • 12 escargot (Helix pomatia)
  • 2 cups cauliflower rice
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté escargot and mixed vegetables for 5 minutes.
  2. 2. Add cauliflower rice and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. 3. Drizzle with lemon juice, salt, and pepper before serving.

Escargot and Zucchini Noodles

A healthy twist on pasta, this dish features zucchini noodles topped with escargot and a light garlic sauce for a refreshing meal.

Ingredients
  • 12 escargot (Helix pomatia)
  • 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add escargot and cook for 3-4 minutes.
  3. 3. Toss in zucchini noodles and cook until just tender, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. 4. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are escargots healthy?

Yes, escargots are low in fat and high in protein, making them a healthy choice when prepared properly.

How should escargot be cooked?

Escargot is typically baked in garlic butter, but they can also be grilled or sautéed.

Can you eat escargot raw?

No, escargot should always be cooked to eliminate any potential parasites.

What do escargots taste like?

Escargots have a mild, slightly earthy flavor, often enhanced by the garlic and herbs used in their preparation.

Where can I buy escargot?

Escargot can be found in specialty food stores, gourmet markets, or online.

Are escargots sustainable?

When sourced from responsible farms, escargots can be a sustainable food choice.

How many calories are in escargot?

There are approximately 90 calories in a serving of escargot (100g).

What nutrients are in escargot?

Escargot is rich in protein, vitamin B12, iron, and magnesium.