Elegant oyster platter on crushed ice with lemon wedges, dill, and mignonette sauce bowls, served on a marble table.

An Oyster Platter with Mignonette is the epitome of elegance, perfect for New Year’s Eve celebrations or any luxurious occasion. Freshly shucked oysters served on a bed of crushed ice, accompanied by tangy mignonette sauce and garnishes, offer a refined and visually stunning appetizer that’s sure to impress.


Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a flawless oyster platter:

For the Oysters:

  • 12–18 fresh oysters (shucked)
  • Crushed ice (for serving)

For the Mignonette Sauce:

  • ½ cup red wine vinegar
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped shallots
  • ½ tsp cracked black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt

Garnishes & Accompaniments:

  • Lemon wedges
  • Sprigs of dill
  • Seaweed (optional, for decoration)
  • Cocktail sauce (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the Mignonette Sauce

A classic sauce that complements the briny flavor of oysters.

  • Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix red wine vinegar, finely chopped shallots, cracked black pepper, and salt.
  • Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.


Step 2: Shuck the Oysters

Freshly shucked oysters make all the difference.

  • Open the Oysters: Use an oyster knife to carefully pry open the shells. Slide the knife under the meat to detach it, keeping it intact.
  • Clean the Shells: Rinse under cold water to remove any grit or shell fragments.


Step 3: Assemble the Platter

Create a visually stunning arrangement.

  • Prepare the Ice Bed: Spread crushed ice evenly across a large serving platter.
  • Arrange Oysters: Place the oysters on the ice, spacing them evenly for an attractive presentation.
  • Add Garnishes: Decorate with lemon wedges, sprigs of dill, and optional seaweed for texture.


Step 4: Serve with Mignonette and Other Sauces

Offer options to delight every guest.

  • Small Bowls: Place mignonette sauce, cocktail sauce, and additional lemon wedges in small bowls around the platter.
  • Add Serving Tools: Include oyster forks for easy handling.


Why You Will Love It

  • Elegant Presentation: Perfect for impressing guests at any upscale gathering.
  • Fresh and Flavorful: The mignonette sauce enhances the natural briny flavor of the oysters.
  • Simple to Assemble: Requires minimal cooking, allowing the fresh ingredients to shine.


The Oyster Platter with Mignonette is a timeless, elegant appetizer that brings sophistication to your table. Pair it with champagne for the ultimate celebration.