Oysters Nouveau is a delightful twist on the classic baked oysters. With a savory breadcrumb topping that offers a perfect blend of herbs and a hint of lemon, these oysters are not only a treat for seafood lovers but also an impressive dish for any gathering.
Oysters are the star of the show, bringing their unique, briny flavor. Make sure they're fresh and shucked right before cooking for the best taste.
Butter and olive oil create a rich base for sautéing the garlic, which adds an aromatic depth to the breadcrumb topping.
Panko breadcrumbs ensure a light, crispy texture. They soak up all the flavors from the butter and herbs beautifully.
Parsley and basil bring freshness and a hint of green color to the dish, while Parmesan cheese adds a savory, umami kick.
Toasted pine nuts give a subtle nuttiness and crunch that complements the other textures perfectly.
Lemon zest and lemon juice brighten the dish and balance the rich flavors with their acidity.
A dash of red pepper flakes adds just enough heat to make things interesting.
These oysters pair beautifully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling wine. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh green salad or a light pasta dish like angel hair with olive oil and lemon.
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to cook the oysters quickly while crisping the topping perfectly.
In a skillet, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Once melted, add the garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant—about 30 seconds to 1 minute should do. You want it soft, not brown.
Stir in the panko breadcrumbs, parsley, basil, Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes. Mix everything well and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Once combined, remove it from the heat.
Arrange your oysters on a baking sheet lined with rock salt. The salt not only stabilizes them but also adds a little extra seasoning.
Spoon the breadcrumb mixture evenly over each oyster, making sure they’re all nicely covered.
Bake in your preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. You’re looking for the oysters to be cooked through and the topping to be a golden brown.
Once out of the oven, drizzle them with fresh lemon juice for a final touch of acidity that pulls all the flavors together.
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