Garlic Shrimp and Avocado Crostini

Name: Garlic Shrimp and Avocado Crostini
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10-12 baguette slices (about ½” thick); 6 tbsp olive oil, divided; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 avocado; Juice of ½ lime; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced; ¾ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon cumin; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper

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There is something magical about small, bite-sized appetizers. They allow you to mingle at a gathering while savoring delicious flavors, making them perfect for social occasions. This garlic shrimp and avocado crostini recipe holds a special place in my heart, inspired by my grandmother’s love for shrimp. She could eat shrimp every single day and never tire of it, which motivated me to create a simple yet flavorful appetizer that brings out the best in this beloved seafood.

This recipe is ideal for beginners because it is easy to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers restaurant-quality results in just a few steps. Whether you are hosting a party, preparing a quick snack, or looking for an elegant appetizer, these crostini will impress with their combination of crunchy bread, creamy avocado, and succulent garlic shrimp.

Why This Recipe is Special

Simple and Quick – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy cooks.

Balanced Flavors – The creamy avocado, citrusy lime, and smoky-spiced shrimp create a harmonious bite.
Beginner-Friendly – The steps are straightforward, and the dish is nearly impossible to mess up.
Versatile – Serve it as an appetizer, a light lunch, or even an elegant addition to a charcuterie board.

Ingredients and Preparation

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Baguette – Provides a crunchy base that complements the soft toppings. Sourdough or French baguette works best.
Olive Oil – Used for toasting the bread and cooking the shrimp, adding a rich, smooth texture.
Garlic – Infuses a deep, aromatic flavor into both the shrimp and the crostini.

Avocado – Creates a creamy contrast to the crispy crostini while adding healthy fats.
Lime Juice – Enhances the freshness and prevents the avocado from browning.
Shrimp – The star of the dish, offering a juicy, protein-packed bite. Opt for fresh, deveined shrimp for the best results.

Smoked Paprika & Cumin – Adds a subtle smokiness and warmth to the shrimp, elevating its flavor.
Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings that balance all the flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

Instead of baguette, use ciabatta, sourdough, or even crackers for a crunchier bite.

Replace shrimp with grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
Swap lime juice with lemon juice for a slightly different citrus note.
If out of smoked paprika, try regular paprika or chili powder for a mild kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place baguette slices in an even layer. In a small bowl, mix olive oil and garlic powder, then brush it onto both sides of each slice. Bake for 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy.

Step 2: While the bread toasts, prepare the avocado mixture. Mash the avocado in a small bowl and mix with lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.

Step 3: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over low heat. Add sliced garlic and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse into the oil.

Step 4: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp, along with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes, flipping the shrimp once or twice, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat.

Step 5: Assemble the crostini by spreading mashed avocado over each toasted baguette slice. Top with one shrimp per crostini, pressing lightly to keep everything in place. Serve immediately.

Beginner Tips and Notes

Choosing the Right Bread: A fresh baguette works best, but if it is slightly stale, toasting will bring it back to life.

How to Know When Shrimp is Cooked: The shrimp should turn pink and curl into a C-shape. If they curl tightly into an O-shape, they may be overcooked.
Preventing Soggy Crostini: Assemble the crostini just before serving to maintain the bread’s crispiness.
Efficient Prep: Chop and measure all ingredients before starting to streamline the process.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with Dips: Serve alongside a garlic aioli or a tangy yogurt-based sauce for extra flavor.
Make it a Meal: Enjoy with a light salad or a bowl of soup for a more filling dish.
Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio complements the dish beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store cooked shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep mashed avocado covered with plastic wrap to prevent browning.
Reheat: Toast leftover crostini in the oven for a few minutes to revive their crispiness. Shrimp can be reheated quickly in a pan over low heat.

Now that you have this easy and delicious garlic shrimp and avocado crostini recipe, it is time to give it a try. Whether you are making it for a party or a quiet night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Let me know in the comments how it turned out for you, and feel free to share your own variations. Happy cooking!

FAQ About Garlic Shrimp and Avocado Crostini

Can I make the crostini ahead of time?

Yes, you can toast the baguette slices in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. However, it is best to assemble the crostini just before serving to keep them crispy.

What type of shrimp should I use?

Fresh, wild-caught shrimp are ideal for the best flavor, but frozen shrimp work well too. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

How can I tell when the shrimp are cooked properly?

Shrimp turn pink and opaque when fully cooked. They should curl into a gentle “C” shape—if they form a tight “O” shape, they are overcooked and may be rubbery.

What can I use instead of avocado?

If you are not a fan of avocado, try using a whipped ricotta spread, cream cheese with herbs, or a light hummus for a creamy texture.

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