Escargot, or cooked land snails, may be an unfamiliar dish to some, but in France, it’s a beloved delicacy steeped in tradition. Served hot and bubbling in garlic-parsley butter, escargot is a true gourmet experience that brings bold flavor and elegance to the table.
While the idea of eating snails may surprise first-timers, escargot has been enjoyed for centuries in French cuisine. The snails are typically cleaned, cooked, and returned to their shells or special ceramic dishes, then baked with a rich mixture of butter, garlic, parsley, and sometimes white wine. The result is an intensely aromatic dish with a tender, meaty texture and an irresistible buttery sauce that’s perfect for dipping crusty bread.
Escargot is most often served as an appetizer and is especially popular in Burgundy, where the dish is a regional specialty. It’s commonly enjoyed during holidays, celebratory dinners, and fine dining experiences. The traditional escargot tongs and small forks used to serve them add a charming and ceremonial touch to the meal.
For those new to escargot, the garlic butter is the perfect introduction. Its bold, savory flavor complements the delicate taste of the snails without overpowering them. Even those who are hesitant to try snails often fall in love with the dish after one bite.
Escargot with garlic butter is more than just a unique dish, it’s a celebration of French culinary artistry. Whether you’re enjoying it in a Parisian bistro or recreating the experience at home, this dish offers a memorable and delicious way to explore one of France’s most iconic appetizers.
Pair it with a crisp white wine and warm baguette, and you have a timeless entrée into the world of French gastronomy.
Ingredients
- 24 snails canned
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp parsley chopped, fresh
- 1 tbsp thyme leaves fresh
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme leaves, salt, and pepper.
- Drain the canned snails and rinse well.
- Place a snail in each shell and fill the shell with the garlic butter mixture.
- Place the filled shells on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, until the butter is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot with crusty bread.
Nutrition
So easy! I didn’t have fresh thyme, but it turned out fine! 🌿
These snails were so delicious, like butter in my mouth! Yummy!
I can’t find snails in my area. Can I use mushrooms instead? 🤷♀️
Yum! Just like I had in France. So delicious and buttery! My new favorite dish.
Wow, I never thought I’d be able to make escargot at home! This recipe is a game changer. Tastes just like at the restaurant!
Yeah, right! Who even eats snails? So gross!
I’ve tried escargot and it’s actually really tasty! You should give it a chance before knocking it!
Yuck, why would anyone eat snails? Just stick to hotdogs!
Escargot is a delicacy in many countries! Just because it’s not for you doesn’t mean it’s bad. Try it with an open mind!
Not bad, but I prefer them without the butter. More garlic next time!
Made these for my fancy dinner party and they were a hit! Thanks!
Wow, escargot at a dinner party? That’s bold! Glad they were a hit!
I don’t understand why people love these nasty things. Just stick to chicken!
My grandma used to make these before her surgery. They bring back memories.
The garlic butter was the best part! I could just eat that on bread, forget the snails.
But isn’t the whole point of escargot to eat the snails? Just saying…
I totally agree! The garlic butter is like magic. Who cares about the snails, right?
Why would anyone want to eat something like this!? I’m sticking to burgers.
Wow, never thought I’d make snails at home! This looks incredible! 🤤
I can’t believe you’re making escargot! That’s so fancy! 😍 I might just have to give it a try now!
Snails? Seriously? I don’t know about that… Seems kinda gross to me. 🤔
Seems like a lot of work for something I could just eat from a can, but I guess if you’re into that.
Delicious! But are canned snails really escargot? 🍴
Not gonna lie, I thought there would be a recipe for spaghetti. 😅
I thought this would be a lot harder! It’s actually realy easy! Tasted great!
I tried this recipe but the snails were kind of slimy. Maybe I did something wrong?
I dunno, snails just seem weird to me. Who eats snails anyway? I’ll stick to pizza.
Wow! This is so fancy. I made it for my fancy dinner party and everyone loved it!
Snails? Really? I thought this was a joke! You people are gonna eat garden pests now?
This is a fancy dish, I’m impressing my friends! I wish I could share a pic but I’m still learning the internet. 😂
Instructions are a bit confusing. Should I bake or grill? 🤔
This recipe is horrible! Snails are gross and the butter just makes it worse. Never trying this again!
Too much thyme for my taste, but overall it was alright. Maybe try it with less herbs next time.
I actually love thyme! Adds a nice flavor kick. But yeah, everyone has their preference. Maybe try dill instead?
Delish! I made mine with extra garlic and it was soooo good!!!