Oysters Salisbury
Oysters Salisbury features fresh Maryland oysters topped with a savory spinach and cheese mixture, then baked to perfection. Elegant and flavorful, ideal for appetizers or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Open oysters, letting remain in deep half of shell.
- Melt butter in a 1-quart saucepan, blend in flour, and slowly add milk. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add shredded Swiss cheese and grated Parmesan cheese; stir until cheese melts.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, nutmeg, pepper, and salt.
- Cook spinach and squeeze out excess moisture.
- Blend spinach into cheese sauce and let mixture cool.
- Top each oyster with 1 tablespoon of spinach mixture.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and bake at 400°F for 10 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses like Gruyère alongside Swiss. If fresh spinach isn't available, frozen spinach can be used—just ensure it's thoroughly drained. For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture. If you're short on time, pre-shucked oysters can save you a step.
Serving Suggestions
These Oysters Salisbury make an excellent appetizer for a seafood-themed dinner. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with a crisp white wine or a light beer. For more delicious seafood ideas, browse more American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Oysters Salisbury can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through, ensuring the topping remains crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the oysters rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oysters Salisbury contains roughly 117 calories, with 7g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned oysters instead of fresh?
Yes, canned oysters can be a convenient substitute. Just ensure they are well-drained and rinsed before using them in this recipe. The flavor will differ slightly, but they can still be quite delicious when baked with the cheese and spinach mixture.
Is it necessary to cook the spinach before adding it to the sauce?
Yes, cooking the spinach before blending it into the cheese sauce helps reduce moisture and ensures it melds well with the flavors. Squeezing out excess moisture is crucial to prevent a watery mixture that could affect the final dish's texture.
What can I serve with Oysters Salisbury?
Oysters Salisbury are fantastic on their own, but they can also be served with crusty bread or crackers to soak up any extra cheese sauce. A light lemon vinaigrette salad or a seafood pasta dish works well as a side, enhancing the overall seafood experience.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).