Are you a seafood lover looking for new ways to enjoy oysters? Look no further! Oysters are a delicacy that can be enjoyed in many different forms, from classic appetizers to hearty meals. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious and savory oyster recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family.
From classic dishes like Oysters Rockefeller to creative twists like Crispy Fried Oysters with Spicy Aioli, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a fan of rich and creamy sauces or bold and spicy flavors, these recipes will inspire you to get cooking and try something new.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each recipe in detail, sharing tips and tricks for preparation and presentation. From appetizers to main courses, there’s no shortage of inspiration on this list. So grab a plate of oysters and let’s start exploring!
Classic Oysters Rockefeller
This elegant appetizer is a timeless classic, featuring succulent oysters topped with spinach, garlic butter, and a rich champagne mignonette sauce. Perfect for special occasions or as an indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 oysters on the half shell
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon champagne mignonette sauce (see note)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with oysters, leaving space between each shell.
3. In a small bowl, mix softened butter with garlic and spinach.
4. Spoon the garlic-spinach mixture evenly over the oysters.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the oysters are cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and top each oyster with champagne mignonette sauce.
7. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crispy Fried Oysters with Spicy Aioli
Add a decadent twist to your seafood game with these crispy fried oysters smothered in a spicy aioli that will leave you craving more. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or as a treat to yourself.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 oysters, shucked and patted dry
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Aioli (see below)
Spicy Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 minced garlic clove
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dredge oysters in flour mixture, shaking off excess, then dip in buttermilk, letting any excess drip off.
4. Fry oysters in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately with Spicy Aioli.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Oysters with Garlic Herb Butter
Elevate your oyster game with this easy and impressive recipe that combines the brininess of grilled oysters with the richness of garlic herb butter.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 oysters, scrubbed clean
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, parsley, and chives until well combined.
3. Place oysters on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re slightly charred and open.
4. Spread a pat of garlic herb butter onto each oyster half.
5. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Oyster Po’ Boy Sandwich with Remoulade
Experience the Gulf Coast’s beloved flavors in this delectable sandwich featuring fresh oysters, crispy French bread, and tangy remoulade sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound oysters, shucked
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade sauce (recipe below)
Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, garlic, and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each oyster in buttermilk, then coat with flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry oysters until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
5. Butter the hoagie rolls.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by placing fried oysters between the rolls and topping with remoulade sauce.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Creamy Oyster Stew with Leeks and Thyme
This hearty stew combines the brininess of oysters with the sweetness of leeks, all tied together with a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a chilly evening, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh oysters, shucked and chopped
– 2 medium leeks, cleaned and sliced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced leeks and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chopped oysters, heavy cream, chicken broth, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Oyster and Bacon Chowder
A hearty and flavorful chowder that combines the brininess of oysters with the smokiness of bacon, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh oysters, shucked and drained
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of clam juice
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the cooked bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until the onions are translucent.
4. Add the clam juice, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Add the shucked oysters to the pot and stir gently to distribute evenly.
6. Simmer the chowder for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the oysters are cooked through.
7. Stir in the cooked bacon and serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Oyster Linguine with Chili and Parsley
This recipe combines the brininess of oysters with the spiciness of chili flakes, all wrapped up in a flavorful linguine dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine
– 1 lb oysters, shucked and sliced into thin pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/4 cup chili flakes
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add oysters, chili flakes, and white wine (if using); cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until oysters are opaque and firm.
4. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked linguine with the oyster mixture; toss to combine.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Oyster Ceviche with Lime and Avocado
A refreshing twist on traditional ceviche, this recipe combines the brininess of oysters with the creaminess of avocado and a squeeze of lime.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound oysters, shucked and sliced into thin pieces
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 limes, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the oyster pieces, avocado, lime juice, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to break up the oysters.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This dish is served chilled or at room temperature.
Baked Oysters with Spinach and Parmesan
Elevate your oyster game with this easy-to-make, flavorful dish that combines the brininess of oysters with the richness of spinach and parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 oysters on the half shell
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together spinach, garlic, and butter until well combined.
3. Place the oysters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each shell.
4. Spoon a small amount of the spinach mixture over each oyster.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the oysters.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the oysters are cooked through and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Oyster and Mushroom Risotto
Rich and creamy risotto infused with the brininess of oysters and earthy flavor of mushrooms, perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 12 oysters, shucked and sliced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add white wine (if using); cook until absorbed.
5. Warm broth in a separate pot. Add 1/2 cup at a time to the rice mixture, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in butter and oysters. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Oyster Shooters with Vodka and Cocktail Sauce
A classic cocktail perfect for special occasions or a spontaneous celebration. These bite-sized shooters combine the brininess of oysters with the spiciness of cocktail sauce, all wrapped up in a refreshing vodka package.
Ingredients:
– 1 dozen freshly shucked oysters
– 1/2 cup vodka
– 1/4 cup cocktail sauce
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Fill a shot glass with ice.
2. Pour 1-2 ounces of vodka into the shot glass.
3. Add 1-2 teaspoons of cocktail sauce on top of the vodka.
4. Place an oyster half in the cocktail sauce, leaving enough room for a small splash of vodka.
5. Garnish with a lemon wedge or chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None (as this is a cocktail recipe)
Oyster and Corn Fritters with Chipotle Mayo
Savor the flavors of the ocean and the farm with these crispy fritters filled with succulent oysters, sweet corn, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a unique appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups corn kernels
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chipotle mayonnaise (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, corn kernels, onion, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add egg and buttermilk; stir until just combined.
4. Gently fold in oysters.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the mixture into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown; drain on paper towels.
7. Serve with chipotle mayonnaise for dipping.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total
Oyster Stuffing with Sage and Sausage
This recipe combines the brininess of oysters with the earthy flavor of sage and the spicy kick of sausage, creating a unique and delicious stuffing perfect for your holiday turkey or roast.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh oysters, shucked
– 1/2 cup stale white bread, cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1/2 pound sweet Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and cooked sausage until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the melted butter, bread cubes, oysters, sage leaves, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until the bread is evenly coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Oyster Pan Roast with Cream and Sherry
A rich and flavorful seafood dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 oysters, shucked and patted dry
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons dry sherry wine
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add oysters and cook until they start to open, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour evenly over the oysters and cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in heavy cream and dry sherry wine, stirring to combine.
6. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the oysters are fully cooked.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Oyster Mornay with Gruyère Cheese
A rich and creamy pasta dish that combines the brininess of oysters with the nutty flavor of Gruyère cheese, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) linguine
– 2 cups (250ml) milk
– 1/2 cup (120g) grated Gruyère cheese
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup (60g) freshly shucked oysters
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Whisk in milk and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked linguine to the cheese sauce, tossing to combine.
6. Fold in oysters and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Oyster Dip with Cream Cheese
Smoked Oyster Dip with Cream Cheese: A rich and savory appetizer perfect for any gathering.
Oyster and Shrimp Gumbo
This classic Louisiana dish combines the brininess of oysters with the sweetness of shrimp in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for a cozy dinner party or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 dozen oysters, shucked
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups fish stock
– 1 tablespoon filé powder (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add shrimp, oysters, paprika, cayenne pepper, and diced tomatoes; stir to combine.
4. Pour in fish stock and bring mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 10-12 minutes or until seafood is cooked through.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and filé powder (if using).
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Oyster Tempura with Sweet Chili Sauce
This Japanese-inspired appetizer combines the brininess of oysters with the crispy texture of tempura and a sweet and spicy kick from the chili sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oysters, shucked and patted dry
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet Chili Sauce (see below)
Sweet Chili Sauce:
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and soda water to form the tempura batter.
2. Dip each oyster into the batter, coating evenly, then carefully place into hot oil (350°F).
3. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together Sweet Chili Sauce ingredients.
5. Serve tempura oysters immediately with Sweet Chili Sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Oyster lovers rejoice! This collection of recipes showcases the versatility and flavor of oysters. From classic dishes like Oysters Rockefeller to creative twists like Spicy Oyster Linguine and Oyster Shooters with Vodka, there’s something for every taste bud. Try your hand at Grilled Oysters with Garlic Herb Butter or indulge in a warm bowl of Creamy Oyster Stew with Leeks and Thyme. For a lighter option, enjoy the freshness of Oyster Ceviche with Lime and Avocado. Whatever your craving, these 18 savory oyster recipes are sure to delight.