Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado is a simple yet delightful appetizer that blends the creamy richness of avocado with the savory flavor of garlic shrimp. Whether you’re preparing it for a gathering or a light snack, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant flavors and elegant presentation. The crunchy crostini offers a perfect contrast to the creamy avocado and tender shrimp, while the garlic adds a flavorful punch. Best of all, it’s quick and easy to make, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the food.
Ingredients:
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 baguette, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 ripe avocados, mashed
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1:
Start by preparing the baguette. Slice the baguette into even, thin slices, approximately half an inch thick. This size allows for the perfect base for the toppings. Lay the slices on a baking sheet and brush each side lightly with olive oil. Toast the baguette slices in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until they become crispy and golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 2:
While the baguette slices are toasting, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be cautious not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. Once the garlic is fragrant, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the pan.
Step 3:
Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Shrimp cook quickly, so be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper to taste as they cook.
Step 4:
While the shrimp are cooking, prepare the avocado spread. In a medium-sized bowl, mash the ripe avocados using a fork or a potato masher until smooth. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the mashed avocado to enhance the flavor and prevent the avocado from browning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix the ingredients until they are fully combined.
Step 5:
Once the baguette slices are toasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Spread a generous amount of the avocado mixture on each slice of crostini. Top each avocado-coated crostini with a cooked shrimp. For an added pop of color and flavor, garnish the crostini with freshly chopped parsley.
Cooking Note:
- For an extra kick of heat, sprinkle a pinch of chili flakes over the shrimp as they cook, or add it to the avocado spread.
- You can also substitute the baguette with gluten-free bread for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
- If you prefer a more garlicky flavor, add an extra clove of garlic to the sautéing process.
Serving Suggestions:
Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado is best served immediately to maintain the crispness of the crostini and the freshness of the avocado. This dish makes a perfect appetizer for dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or even as a light lunch. Serve alongside a light salad or a platter of fresh vegetables for a complete meal. You can also pair this crostini with a refreshing citrus-based drink or sparkling water for a balanced and vibrant dining experience.
Tips:
- To keep the avocado spread from turning brown too quickly, store it in an airtight container with a thin layer of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the avocado mixture.
- For a variation in flavor, you can grill the shrimp instead of sautéing them for a slightly smoky taste.
- Make sure to use ripe avocados for the smoothest texture in the spread. A ripe avocado will give slightly when pressed but should not be mushy.
- You can prepare the avocado mixture and toast the baguette slices ahead of time to save time when assembling the dish later.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 480mg
FAQs:
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure they cook evenly.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: For added spice, you can mix in some crushed red pepper flakes with the garlic while sautéing the shrimp or add a dash of hot sauce to the avocado spread.
Q: Can I store leftovers?
A: It is best to enjoy this dish fresh, as the toasted crostini can become soggy if stored. However, if you have leftovers, store the avocado spread separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. You can also refrigerate cooked shrimp, but it’s best to assemble the crostini just before serving.
Q: Can I use a different type of bread?
A: Absolutely! While a baguette provides a classic crunchy base, you can use any type of bread you prefer, such as ciabatta, sourdough, or even crackers for a different texture.
Q: Is there a vegetarian alternative to shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can replace the shrimp with roasted cherry tomatoes or grilled mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Both options provide a rich flavor that pairs well with the avocado spread.
Conclusion:
Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado is a versatile and crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines simple ingredients to create a burst of flavors. The creamy avocado, perfectly cooked shrimp, and toasted crostini make for a harmonious bite every time. With minimal preparation time and straightforward steps, this recipe is ideal for entertaining or enjoying as a light meal. Whether you’re making it for a party or just to treat yourself, the balance of textures and flavors will leave everyone coming back for more!