BROILED OYSTERS WITH HAZELNUT PESTO

Broiled Oysters with Hazelnut Pesto image

Yield Serves 10

Number Of Ingredients 9

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1 1/2 cups (packed) fresh basil leaves
3/4 cup hazelnuts, toasted, husked (about 5 ounces)
1/4 cup plain dry breadcrumbs
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, peeled
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, room temperature
30 fresh oysters, shucked, shells reserved

Steps:

Combine basil, hazelnuts, breadcrumbs, cheese, 1/4 cup water, lemon juice and garlic in processor. Blend until mixture is finely chopped. Add butter and process until smooth paste forms. Season pesto to taste with salt and pepper. (Can be made 2 days ahead. Cover and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before continuing.)
Preheat broiler. Arrange oysters in half shells on 2 large baking sheets. Top each oyster with 1 1/2 teaspoons pesto. Working in batches, broil until pesto begins to brown, about 1 1/2 minutes. Place 3 oysters on each plate and serve.