Grilled Oyster Delight with Garlic Butter and Cheese
Experience the essence of New Orleans with this delectable Grilled Oyster Delight, inspired by one of the city’s iconic dishes from Dragos. These charbroiled oysters, bursting with flavor, are a luxurious treat perfect for any gathering or special occasion. The combination of rich butter, aromatic garlic, and a blend of cheeses creates a mouthwatering topping that complements the briny freshness of the oysters. While these can be broiled in an oven, grilling them adds a charred smokiness that elevates the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. Get ready for an impressive presentation and an unforgettable taste sensation that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of New Orleans!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Oysters
32 (on the half shell)
Butter
1 cup (melted)
Garlic
2 tablespoons (finely chopped)
Fresh ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (grated (not from a can))
Pecorino Romano cheese
1/4 cup (grated)
Parsley
1/2 cup (finely chopped)
Instructions
1
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it's clean and ready for cooking.
2
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped garlic and fresh ground black pepper, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3
In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheeses and mix well.
4
Arrange the oysters on a large platter or shucking board, keeping them on the half shell.
5
Using a spoon, generously drizzle the melted butter mixture over each oyster.
6
Sprinkle a pinch of the cheese blend atop each oyster, followed by a pinch of finely chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
7
Carefully place the prepared oysters directly on the grill grates, ensuring they are stable and not tipping over.
8
Grill the oysters for approximately 8 minutes, or until they are hot, bubbly, and their edges start to slightly caramelize and puff up.
9
Remove the oysters from the grill and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the flavorful spectacle!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the inspiration for this Grilled Oyster Delight recipe?
This recipe is inspired by the iconic charbroiled oysters from Drago's in New Orleans.
How many oysters are needed for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 32 oysters served on the half shell.
Can I prepare these oysters in an oven instead of a grill?
Yes, while grilling adds a charred smokiness, these oysters can also be broiled in an oven.
What temperature should the grill be set to?
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for the best results.
What types of cheese are used in the topping?
The topping uses a blend of grated Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheeses.
How long should the oysters be grilled?
Grill the oysters for approximately 8 minutes until they are hot and bubbly.
How do I know when the oysters are finished cooking?
They are ready when the edges start to slightly caramelize and puff up.
Is it okay to use canned Parmesan cheese?
The recipe recommends using fresh grated Parmesan cheese rather than the kind from a can.
How should the garlic be prepared for the butter sauce?
The garlic should be finely chopped and sautéed in butter for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
How much butter is required for the recipe?
You will need 1 cup of melted butter.
When should the parsley be added?
Sprinkle a pinch of finely chopped parsley over each oyster after the cheese but before placing them on the grill.
Should the oysters be stable on the grill?
Yes, ensure the oysters are placed directly on the grill grates so they are stable and do not tip over.
What kind of pepper is best for this dish?
Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for the best flavor profile.
Can this recipe be used as a main course?
While it can be, it is traditionally served as a luxurious appetizer or party food.
Is there any specific way to arrange the oysters during prep?
Keep them on the half shell and arrange them on a large platter or shucking board for easy topping.
How much garlic is used in the sauce?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of finely chopped garlic.
Should I let the oysters cool before eating?
Yes, allow them to cool slightly after removing them from the grill before serving.
What is the total amount of cheese used?
The recipe uses a 1/2 cup total of cheese (1/4 cup Parmesan and 1/4 cup Pecorino Romano).
Does this recipe include salt?
No additional salt is listed, as the oysters and cheeses typically provide enough saltiness.
What is the primary flavor profile of these oysters?
They feature a combination of rich butter, aromatic garlic, and briny freshness with a smoky finish.
Can I use pre-shucked oysters?
For this specific grilling method, the oysters must be on the half shell to hold the butter and cheese.
How much parsley is needed?
You will need 1/2 cup of finely chopped fresh parsley.
Is the butter mixture applied before or after grilling?
The butter mixture is drizzled over the oysters before they are placed on the grill.
What tags define this recipe?
Tags include seafood, oysters, grilled, New Orleans, Cajun, charbroiled, and appetizer.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 main ingredients including the oysters, butter, garlic, pepper, two cheeses, and parsley.
What is the key to the garlic butter sauce?
Sautéing the garlic and black pepper in the butter until fragrant is key to the flavor.
Is Pecorino Romano necessary?
It is recommended for its specific sharp flavor, but it is part of the 50/50 cheese blend with Parmesan.
Does the recipe require any specialized tools?
You will need a grill, a large skillet for the butter, and optionally a shucking board.
What makes the oysters 'puff up'?
The high heat of the grill causes the oyster and the cheese-butter topping to bubble and expand slightly.
Is this a good recipe for large gatherings?
Yes, because it makes 32 oysters and provides an impressive presentation, it is perfect for gatherings.