Lesbian chef Michele Ragussis serves up a little taste of the American Northeast with the pilot of “My New England” for the finals of The Next Food Network Star, AfterEllen reported. 

First up on the menu is her favorite – clams.

Inspired by Ed’s Lobster Bar in New York City, Ragussis delivers a mouthwatering clam recipe with sweet Rhode Island corn and Portuguese chorizo.

Ragussis keeps it casual and upbeat with a cute anecdote about her nieces as she demonstrates how to prepare the dish, which, if we’re adding it up right, takes just over 10 minutes on the stove.

Throw in some olive oil, garlic, celery, basil, butter, a cup of white wine and some lemon juice, and dive in.

As Ragussis puts it: “If you don’t live by the water, you’re gonna feel like you’re by the water.”

Check out the pilot below, and grab a napkin to wipe up your drool. You can vote for Ragussis at foodnetwork.com.

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