We all have those vivid memories of family gatherings that involve traditions around food.  One of my favorites includes my late grandmother “Edie”; at any family get-together she arrived with raw oysters and a sleeve of saltine crackers.  Each family member would be encouraged (expected) to have one, even the great-grandchildren.  On the day of her funeral, we all celebrated her life with a champagne toast chased by an oyster. 

My children never met their great-grandmother, but we hope to keep tradition and stories alive.  So whenever we get out the oysters we tell stories about great-grandma Edie.  Our girls will eat anything but as the proverb “Life is brightest, where food is best” states, we remember great-grandma with this delicious oyster recipe below.

Grilled Oysters with Seasoned Butter

Ingredients:

Seasoned Butter
10 tablespoons softened butter
2 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons minced garlic
2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh rosemary
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

24 shucked oysters, half of each shell reserved and washed.

Instructions:

1. In a bowl combine all ingredients listed above for the seasoned butter and mix thoroughly to combine. Transfer butter mixture to a piece of plastic wrap and roll up to form a tight 3” loaf. Freeze until firm.

2. I highly recommend making these on a Weber Charcoal Kettle to enhance the flavor. Pre-heat on high heat (450-550F) by using a full Chimney Starter of charcoal.

3. Place the prepared oysters directly onto the cooking grate over direct heat. 

4. Grill for approximately 5-6 minutes.  You will know they are done when the juices start to steam and the edges curl.

5. Remove the butter from the freezer and unwrap. Slice the butter into ¼ inch slices and place a slice on the top of each oyster.

6. Serve immediately.