CORNMEAL-CRUSTED OYSTERS WITH SOUR CREAM AND CAVIAR Oysters are a delicacy traditionally enjoyed with a glass of sparkling wine - what better way to kick off a holiday feast? Fried oysters are a great alternative to raw for people who love oysters but prefer them cooked. Bread the oysters ahead of time and quickly fry just before serving. The sour cream and black caviar add a deluxe touch. 24 oysters, shucked, with 4-6 shells reserved 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 3/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 2 eggs Vegetable oil for frying 1 cup sour cream 2 oz (60 g) black caviar, or to taste Fresh flat-leaf (Italian) parsley sprigs

Preheat an oven to 200°F.

Drain the oysters and blot on a double thickness of paper towels to remove excess moisture. On a sheet of waxed paper, combine the cornmeal, flour, salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until blended.

One at a time, roll the oysters in the cornmeal mixture, shaking off the excess. Dip them into the eggs and then roll them again in the cornmeal mixture to coat lightly. Place on a tray or platter, then refrigerate until ready to fry.

Pour vegetable oil to a depth of 1 inch in a large frying pan and place over medium heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a tiny crust of bread into it; it should sizzle upon contact. Add the oysters, 6-8 at a time, and fry, turning once, until golden, about 4 minutes. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer to paper towels to drain. Keep warm until all are cooked. Repeat with the remaining oysters.

To serve, spoon the sour cream into the reserved oyster shells, dividing it evenly, and top each with a small spoonful of caviar. Place a shell in the center of each individual plate. Surround with the hot oysters. Garnish with a parsley sprig.

Serves 4-6.

MAKE-AHEAD TIP: You an bread the oysters up to 1 hour ahead. Place on a tray or platter, then refrigerate until ready to quickly fry just before serving.

[Holiday Celebrations, Williams-Sonoma Lifestyle Collection]