This classic preparation elevates fresh oysters with a rich, vibrant topping of sautéed spinach, scallions, and parsley, enriched with Pernod and anchovy paste. Crispy bacon adds a savory crunch, while toasted breadcrumbs provide texture and color. The result is a luxurious appetizer or main course that balances briny seafood with earthy greens and aromatic herbs. Perfect for special occasions, holiday gatherings, or an elegant dinner party, these oysters are as visually stunning as they are delicious. The combination of buttery richness and herbal brightness creates a memorable dining experience that showcases the natural flavor of the shellfish while offering a complex, satisfying bite.
Oysters Rockefeller
Description
This classic preparation elevates fresh oysters with a rich, vibrant topping of saut&# 195;©ed spinach, scallions, and parsley, enriched with Pernod and anchovy paste. Crispy bacon adds a savory crunch, while toasted breadcrumbs provide texture and color. The result is a luxurious appetizer or main course that balances briny seafood with earthy greens and aromatic herbs. Perfect for special occasions, holiday gatherings, or an elegant dinner party, these oysters are as visually stunning as they are delicious. The combination of buttery richness and herbal brightness creates a memorable dining experience that showcases the natural flavor of the shellfish while offering a complex, satisfying bite.Ingredients
Directions
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Shuck the oysters, reserving the liquor and the bottom shells.
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Scrub the shells thoroughly and dry them with a clean towel.
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In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, spinach, scallions, 1/2 cup bread crumbs, parsley, celery, and garlic.
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Melt butter in a skillet over moderate heat.
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Add the spinach mixture to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes until the greens are wilted.
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Stir in Pernod, anchovy paste, cayenne pepper, and salt and pepper to taste.
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Cover the mixture and chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
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In a separate skillet, cook bacon over moderate heat until crisp.
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Transfer bacon to paper towels to drain, then crumble it.
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Arrange one oyster in each reserved shell and moisten with some of the reserved oyster liquor.
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Spread half of the chilled spinach mixture by heaping tablespoons onto the oysters.
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Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over each oyster.
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Top the bacon with the remaining spinach mixture.
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Sprinkle each oyster with 1 tablespoon of the remaining fine bread crumbs.
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Arrange the oysters on oven-proof platters filled with coarse salt to stabilize them.
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Bake in a preheated 450ðF (232ðC) oven for 18 minutes, or until the bread crumbs are well browned and the topping is bubbly.
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Garnish with parsley sprigs and lemon wedges, then serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 36
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 3.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.1g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 1.2mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 0.7g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.3g2%
- Sugars 0.2g
- Protein 0.3g1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Source: Adapted from a 1976 Gourmet Magazine favorite.
Use coarse salt in the baking platters to help keep the shells from tipping over during baking and to add a subtle crust if desired.
If Pernod is unavailable, Anisette or a small amount of fennel seeds can be used as a substitute to maintain the classic flavor profile.
