If you can't find it, parmesan cheese is a great substitute. Pecorino Romano: This salty, sharp Italian cheese adds a nice tangy flavor to the stuffing.Keep an eye out for any open or cracked clams and discard them before cooking. Always buy fresh clams from a reputable seafood market. Top neck clams or 'middleneck' clams also work well, but the quantities of the recipe will need to be adjusted slightly. Clams: I prefer using Littleneck clams for this recipe because they're the perfect size to eat in one bite, and they have a sweet and briny flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.