Crudo on the Half Shell is a refreshing, elegant seafood dish that highlights the natural sweetness of fresh oysters or scallops. Served raw on their shells and dressed with bright citrus, herbs, and a touch of heat, this recipe celebrates clean, oceanic flavor with minimal fuss. It’s perfect as a starter for a special dinner or a festive holiday platter.
Ingredients
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12 fresh oysters or sea scallops, shucked and cleaned
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2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
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1 small shallot, finely minced
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1 small red chili or jalapeño, thinly sliced
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Zest and juice of 1 lemon
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Zest and juice of 1 lime
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1 tbsp rice vinegar
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1 tbsp finely chopped chives or fresh dill
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Sea salt, to taste
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Cracked black pepper, to taste
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Crushed ice, for serving
Cooking Time
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Prep time: 20 minutes
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No cooking required
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Total time: 20 minutes
Serving
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Serves 4 as an appetizer
Instructions
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Prepare the Seafood:
Carefully shuck the oysters or slice the scallops into thin rounds if using scallops. Keep them chilled on a plate lined with crushed ice while you prepare the dressing. -
Make the Citrus Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice and zest, lime juice and zest, rice vinegar, shallot, chili slices, salt, and pepper. Stir in the fresh chives or dill. -
Assemble:
Arrange the oysters or scallops on a bed of crushed ice. Spoon a small amount of the citrus dressing over each shell, just enough to coat the surface without overwhelming the seafood. -
Serve:
Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing. The crisp acidity and spice will complement the natural brininess of the seafood beautifully.
Tips
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Always use the freshest oysters or scallops you can find; freshness is key for crudo.
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Chill your serving platter and shells before plating to keep everything cold.
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For a twist, add a few drops of sesame oil or a sprinkle of microgreens for extra flavor and texture.
Nutrition (per serving)
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Calories: 140
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Protein: 11g
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Fat: 7g
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Carbohydrates: 3g
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Sodium: 180mg
Light, citrusy, and full of clean flavor, Crudo on the Half Shell is an impressive dish that’s both simple and sophisticated—a perfect way to enjoy the beauty of raw seafood with just the right balance of acid, spice, and freshness.
