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Grilled Oysters with Garlic Butter

Yields4 ServingsPrep Time20 minsCook Time10 minsTotal Time30 mins

These Grilled Oysters with Garlic Butter are a decadent appetizer featuring briny, plump oysters grilled to perfection and topped with a rich, garlicky herb butter. Perfect for a summer cookout or an elegant dinner party.

Grilled Oysters with Garlic Butter

For the Garlic Butter
 ½ cup Unsalted Butter (softened)
 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped)
 1 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
 ½ tsp Lemon Zest
 ¼ tsp Smoked Paprika
 ¼ tsp Black Pepper
 ¼ tsp Salt
For the Oysters
 16 Fresh Oysters (scrubbed and rinsed)
 1 Lemon (cut into wedges, for serving)
 ¼ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional, for extra richness)
Prepare the Garlic Butter
1

  1. Combine Ingredients:

    • In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, lemon juice, lemon zest, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.

  2. Chill the Butter:

    • Place the garlic butter in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to firm up slightly, making it easier to handle.

Prepare the Oysters
2

  1. Preheat the Grill:

    • Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (400°F / 200°C).

  2. Shuck the Oysters:

    • Using an oyster knife, carefully shuck the oysters, keeping the meat intact and discarding the top shell.

    • Place each oyster on a grill-safe tray or oyster rack or use a layer of crumpled aluminum foil to keep the oysters stable.

Assemble the Oysters
3

  1. Add Garlic Butter:

    • Spoon 1-2 teaspoons of garlic butter over each oyster, ensuring even coverage.

  2. Optional – Add Parmesan:

    • If desired, sprinkle a small amount of grated Parmesan cheese over each oyster for extra richness.

Grill the Oysters
4

  1. Grill the Oysters:

    • Place the tray or oyster rack on the grill.

    • Close the lid and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the butter is melted, the edges of the oysters curl, and the cheese (if using) is golden brown.

  2. Monitor Closely:

    • Keep a close eye on the oysters to prevent overcooking, as they can become rubbery.

Serve and Garnish
5

  1. Plate the Oysters:

    • Carefully transfer the oysters to a serving platter using tongs.

  2. Garnish and Serve:

    • Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the oysters and garnish with extra chopped parsley.

    • Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Serving and Presentation
6

  • Serve the grilled oysters immediately while hot, with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water.

  • Arrange on a bed of rock salt or crushed ice to keep them stable and visually appealing.

Tips and Variations
7

  • Spicy Cajun Oysters: Add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.

  • Herb Butter Oysters: Swap the parsley for fresh thyme or rosemary for an herbaceous twist.

  • Cheesy Oysters: Top each oyster with a blend of Parmesan and Gruyère cheese before grilling.

  • Lemon Garlic Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle with a mixture of breadcrumbs, lemon zest, and olive oil for added crunch.

  • Oysters Rockefeller Style: Add a layer of spinach sautéed with garlic and shallots beneath the garlic butter for a richer appetizer.

Nutrition Facts

4 servings

Serving size