Name: Grilled Oysters with Garlic Herb Butter and Chili Flakes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 16 whole live oysters; 2 cloves garlic, finely minced; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon chili pepper flakes (or substitute with dashes of Tabasco); 1/4 teaspoon salt; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon finely minced parsley

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Introduction

Grilled oysters bring a smoky, buttery flavor to the natural brininess of fresh shellfish. This simple recipe combines a garlicky, spicy sauce with the unique charm of outdoor grilling, making it perfect for a summer gathering or special treat.

The image shows a close-up of oysters on a bed of uncooked white rice. Each oyster shell has a rough, dark outer edge with a smooth, shiny white inner surface. Inside the oyster, there is a small piece of the oyster meat, which is light brown and slightly glossy. On top of the oyster meat, there is a layer of green herbs, likely parsley, and a light yellow sauce with a shiny, smooth texture. The background is a white marbled surface that highlights the fresh look of the oysters. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

16 whole live oysters
2 cloves garlic, finely minced

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon chili pepper flakes (or substitute with dashes of Tabasco)

1/4 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon finely minced parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the sauce by heating a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the olive oil and butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, chili pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and parsley.
Step 2: If you can shuck oysters, carefully open them, spoon a small amount of sauce onto each oyster, then place them on a very hot, preheated grill. Cover and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until the oyster edges curl slightly.
Step 3: If you cannot shuck, place the oysters cup side up on the hot grill and cover for 1 minute until they start to open. Remove carefully and use an oven mitt and a shucking knife or clean screwdriver to pry open the oysters.

Step 4: Spoon sauce into each opened oyster and return them to the grill. Cover and cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh live oysters to ensure the best flavor and safety.
Adjust the chili pepper flakes or Tabasco to your preferred spice level.

For an extra touch, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or breadcrumbs before grilling.
If you prefer, finish the grilled oysters with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added brightness.

Storage

Grilled oysters are best enjoyed immediately. If you must store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 1 to 2 days. Reheat gently on the grill or under a broiler just until warmed through to avoid overcooking.

How to Serve

This image shows several oysters on a bed of uncooked white rice, each oyster shell open and holding the oyster inside. Each oyster has a shiny, soft, light beige flesh visible, topped with a sauce that has a bright yellow color and pieces of green and red herbs or seasoning. The oysters are arranged closely together on the rice, with some parts of the rough dark shells visible. The surface under the rice has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the garlic butter sauce can be made up to a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before spooning onto the oysters.

How do I know if oysters are fresh and safe to eat?

Fresh oysters should smell like the ocean—briny and clean, not fishy or off. Always buy from a reputable source and keep them cold until cooking.