Fresh oysters on the half shell
Fresh oysters on the half shell are raw oysters served in their bottom shell, typically enjoyed chilled with a squeeze of lemon, mignonette sauce, or cocktail sauce. This classic seafood delicacy is a staple of coastal cuisine worldwide, from French brasseries to American raw bars. The dish highlights the oyster's natural briny, sweet, and mineral-rich flavor.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Oysters are very low in carbohydrates and high in high-quality protein. They are an exceptional source of essential minerals like zinc, selenium, and vitamin B12, with a typical serving of six medium oysters containing roughly 50-70 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 58 kcal |
| Protein | 5.1 g |
| Carbs | 3.1 g |
| Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 126 mg |
| Zinc | 33 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 16 mcg |
| Selenium | 22 mcg |
| Iron | 5.1 mg |
| Copper | 1.4 mg |
| Manganese | 1.0 mg |
| Phosphorus | 100 mg |
| Vitamin D | 6.2 mcg |
Per 6 medium oysters (84 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, oysters have been both a common food for coastal communities and a luxury delicacy for centuries. Nutritionally, they are one of the best dietary sources of zinc, a mineral crucial for immune function and cell growth.
