All it takes is room temperature butter and whatever mix-ins you want to add, whether it's garlic, shallots, herbs, or spices ...

12 fresh oysters, shucked and on the half shell, reserving as much liquid as possible 1 tablespoon chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley Lemon wedges, for serving ...

Total cost for a family of four, with leftovers? A very affordable $21.03, or just a little more than $5 per serving for a nutritious, home-cooked meal. How, you ask?