Description
This Smoky Lemon Garlic Grilled Oysters recipe is your new favorite grilled seafood appetizer. With garlic butter, lemon zest, and a hint of smoke, these grilled oysters are quick, flavorful, and perfect for any backyard gathering. A bold and buttery oyster dish with citrus and spice.
Ingredients
12 fresh oysters in shell
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer gently for a couple of minutes. Remove from heat.
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using charcoal, wait until the coals are glowing with a thin layer of ash.
3. Place oysters cup-side down directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and cook for 5–7 minutes until the shells begin to pop open.
4. Carefully remove the oysters with tongs. Shuck the top shell and spoon garlic butter over each oyster.
5. Return the oysters (in their half shells) to the grill for 2 more minutes to sizzle and slightly caramelize.
6. Garnish with parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Notes
These oysters are best enjoyed fresh off the grill.
Use medium to large oysters for optimal size and flavor.
Don’t skip the smoked paprika—it brings the real grilled flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 oysters
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 0.3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg