Lightened-Up Oysters Rockefeller

So, the Big Valentine's Day is tomorrow, and you KNOW what they say about eating  oysters.....................   :)
(makes 12 oysters)

Rock salt
12 fresh oysters, shucked, bottom shells and juices reserved
3 tightly packed cups fresh spinach, trimmed and de-stemed*
1 tightly packed cup fresh Italian parsley
2 T. butter*
1 cup finely chopped fennel bulb, pluss fronds for garnish
1/2 cup sliced scallions, light green and white parts only
1/2 cup 2% milk*
1 T. capers, drained
1 T. fresh lemon juice
1/4 t. Tabasco*
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Lemon wedges, for garnish

Arrange oven rack in highest position. Preheat oven to 450. Spread a layer of rock salt (or crumpled foil) across the bottom of a large, rimmed baking sheet. Arrange oyster bottom shells on sheet and return oyster meat to each. Bring a med. pot of water to a boil. Add spinach and parsley and cook for 30 secs. Drain. When cool enough to handle, squeeze spinach and parsley with several layers of paper towels to remove excess water. Transfer to a cutting board and finely mince. In a large nonstick skillet, melt butter on med. high. Add fennel and scallions and saute, stirring occasionally, until very tender, 6-8 mins. Add spinach and parsley, milk, capers, lemon juice, hot sauce, and reserved oyster juice. Cook until slightly reduced and heated through, about 3 mins. Spoon spinach mixture and a small amount of accompanying juices into oyster shells, dividing evenly. Top with cheese and bake on upper rack until cheese melts, and lightly* browns, 12-15 mins. Serve oysters on a plate covered with rock salt. Garnish with lemon wedges and fennel fronds.

Just the facts, Jack: "Oysters are a low-calorie, high-protein food that are rich in zinc, as well as iron, calcium and vitmens A and B12. As an antioxidant, zinc is especially benefial to the body's immune system, and it can help speed up the healing process after an injury. In addion, zinc can help stimulate your sense of smell." And, there you have it!!

"The secret to contentment is having an attitude of thankfulness and satisfaction."

Have FUN today!

Love,

MM