The high zinc content of the oyster makes it a key player in the fight for a healthy immune system, and good skin, hair and bones. A dozen steamed oysters provide roughly half of your iron requirement for the day. To open a fresh oyster take a small, strong knife with the stainless steel blade. Twist the knife. Throw away any oysters with broken or open shells.
Epicureans like to eat raw oysters, but food safety experts recommend a little cooking.
Oysters can be steamed, grilled with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs, or baked. Try poaching them in some fish stock or in a mixture of water with wine and lemon juice flavoured with garlic.