You know what I love about SeptembeR, OctobeR, NovembeR, and DecembeR? It's oyster season! Not that I don't indulge in bivalves year-round, but during these months oysters are, some say, at their peak in taste. For the next few weeks, I'll be sampling the most memorable and tasty oyster dishes in Houston.
No. 10: Oyster Caesar Salad at Ragin Cajun.
Anchovies are usually the featured fish in caesar salads, but at Ragin Cajun, oysters are front and center. A dozen or so sizable, cornmeal-battered oysters ring a small mountain of crisp romaine lettuce mixed with homemade croutons and shredded parmesan.
The cooks at Ragin Cajun are smart enough to only lightly fry their oysters, which prevents the mollusks from overwhelming the lighter greens and toasted bread components with excess grease. Dressing is a standard caesar blend (easy, appropriately, on the anchovy flavor) with a bit of extra pepper that provides a little kick.
Although I usually like my salad dressed with abandon, I'm glad Ragin Cajun is more prudent with its Oyster Caesar Salad. With only a light touch of dressing, the rich brininess of the fried oysters carries the day.
Follow Eating Our Words on Facebook and on Twitter @EatingOurWords