Oysters with Aioli

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 tablespoons sliced almonds
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons hot smoked Spanish paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 jars (each 10 oz., or 30 total) shucked oysters, Kumamotos or small Pacifics, drained and patted dry

Preparation

1. 1. Stir almonds in a 6- to 8-inch frying pan over medium heat until golden, 5 to 6 minutes.
2. 2. Pour nuts into a food processor or blender. When slightly cooled, whirl to a fine powder.
3. 3. In a bowl, combine nuts, garlic, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon olive oil; mix well.
4. 4. In a plastic food bag, combine flour, paprika, and salt. Drop in oysters, a few at a time, and shake to coat. Lift from bag, shaking off excess flour mixture. Lay oysters slightly apart on a sheet of waxed paper. Discard extra flour.
5. 5. Place a nonstick 10- to 12-inch frying pan over high heat. When hot, add 1 1/2 tablespoons oil and swirl to coat pan. Add half of the coated oysters and brown well on each side, turning once, about 2 minutes total. Drain on towels and keep warm.
6. 6. Add remaining oil to pan and brown remaining oysters.
7. 7. Serve the oysters with the almond aioli sauce.