Massachusetts Herb-Infused Grilled Oysters

Introduction

Experience the rich flavors of Cape Cod with these herb-infused grilled oysters. Fresh Massachusetts oysters are fire-grilled on the Arteflame grill and topped with a luscious garlic butter, fresh parsley, and Parmesan for a perfect bite every time.

Ingredients

• 12 fresh Massachusetts Cape Cod oysters
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• 1/2 cup coarse salt (for stabilizing oysters on the grill, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Get the Arteflame grill ready

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the paper napkins.
3. Light the napkins and let the fire burn for about 20 minutes until the griddle cooktop is hot.

Step 2: Prepare the garlic butter

1. In a small bowl, mix softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
2. Stir well until fully combined, then set aside.

Step 3: Shuck the oysters

1. Carefully shuck each oyster, keeping as much of the briny liquid inside the shell as possible.
2. Loosen the oyster from the shell for easier eating.

Step 4: Grill the oysters

1. Place each oyster directly onto the hotter side of the flat cooktop griddle.
2. If needed, create a small pile of coarse salt to stabilize the shells.
3. Add a small spoonful of the garlic butter mixture onto each oyster.
4. Grill the oysters for 3-4 minutes until the butter melts and the edges of the oyster slightly curl.

Step 5: Add Parmesan and finish grilling

1. Sprinkle grated Parmesan over each oyster.
2. Let them cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and slightly browns.
3. Remove oysters from the grill and transfer to a serving platter.

Tips

• For extra smokiness, add a small chunk of hardwood to the fire before grilling.
• Use a sturdy oyster knife and work carefully when shucking oysters to avoid injury.
• Serve immediately while hot with lemon wedges for added freshness.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun Oysters: Add 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning to the garlic butter and sprinkle with paprika before grilling.
2. Bacon-Wrapped Oysters: Wrap each oyster in a thin slice of bacon before grilling to infuse rich, meaty flavor.
3. Asian-Inspired Oysters: Mix in 1/2 tsp soy sauce and a dash of sesame oil to the butter mixture for an umami-packed version.
4. Lemon Herb Oysters: Use chopped fresh basil and thyme along with zest from a whole lemon to brighten the flavor.
5. Truffle Parmesan Oysters: Drizzle a small amount of truffle oil over the oysters before serving for a luxurious twist.

Best Pairings

• A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay
• Grilled asparagus with lemon zest
• Fresh baguette slices with a garlic butter spread
• Light seafood pasta with a white wine sauce

Conclusion

These herb-infused grilled oysters bring out the best of Massachusetts seafood, featuring fresh Cape Cod oysters, flavorful garlic butter, and melted Parmesan. Perfect for any gathering, this recipe is easy to prepare on the Arteflame grill and ensures perfectly cooked oysters every time.