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Smoky Lemon Garlic Grilled Oysters

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Smoky lemon garlic grilled oysters are a bold, savory appetizer featuring fresh oysters grilled to perfection and topped with a zesty garlic butter. They’re smoky, buttery, and elegant—perfect for summer gatherings or a luxurious seafood treat.

Ingredients

  • 12 fresh oysters, scrubbed and on the half shell
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika or chipotle powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Optional: hot sauce, grated Parmesan, or panko breadcrumbs for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter and stir in garlic, lemon juice, zest, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  3. Place oysters flat-side up directly on the grill. Close the lid and cook for 4–6 minutes until they begin to open slightly.
  4. Carefully spoon the garlic lemon butter into each oyster shell.
  5. Grill for another 1–2 minutes until the butter is bubbling and the oysters are cooked through.
  6. Remove oysters with tongs and transfer to a platter. Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges and optional toppings like hot sauce or Parmesan.

Notes

  • Broil in the oven if you don’t have a grill—use a baking sheet and cook until bubbling.
  • Use chipotle powder for a spicier, deeper smoky flavor.
  • Top with panko or Parmesan before the final grill for extra crunch and richness.
  • Make the garlic butter ahead and store in the fridge to save time.
  • Serve immediately—grilled oysters taste best fresh off the heat.

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