Appetizers & Starters > Seafood Starters > Cold Seafood Dishes > Oysters on the Half Shell

Oysters on the Half Shell with Cucumber-Lime Granita

A refreshing and vibrant twist on the classic oyster appetizer. This recipe features fresh oysters on the half shell topped with a cool and zesty cucumber-lime granita. The granita adds a burst of flavor and a delightful textural contrast to the creamy oysters.

Prep Time
25 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes
Servings
4
Ingredients
  • 12 Fresh Oysters
  • 1 Cucumber
  • 1/4 cup Lime Juice
  • 2 tablespoons Simple Syrup
  • a few Fresh Mint Leaves
  • to taste Salt

Preparing the Cucumber-Lime Granita

Peel and roughly chop the cucumber. Place the cucumber, lime juice, simple syrup, mint leaves, and a pinch of salt in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Freezing the Granita

Pour the cucumber mixture into a shallow baking dish. Place in the freezer for 2-3 hours, or until frozen. Every 30 minutes, use a fork to scrape the granita, breaking up any large ice crystals. This will create a light and fluffy texture. Continue scraping until the granita is fully frozen and has a snow-like consistency.

Shucking the Oysters

As described in the previous recipe, shuck the oysters with care and precision. Ensure the oysters are properly cleaned and chilled before serving. Discard the top shell.

Serving the Oysters

Arrange the shucked oysters on a bed of crushed ice. Spoon a generous amount of cucumber-lime granita over each oyster. Garnish with a small mint leaf. Serve immediately.

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FAQ

  • Can I make the granita ahead of time?

    Yes, the granita can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the freezer. Scrape the granita with a fork before serving to refresh its texture.
  • Can I use a different type of herb in the granita?

    Yes, you can experiment with other herbs such as cilantro or basil. Adjust the quantity to your liking.
  • What is simple syrup?

    Simple syrup is a combination of equal parts sugar and water, heated until the sugar dissolves. You can easily make it at home or purchase it from most grocery stores.