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.

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

Description

Crispy baguette slices topped with creamy avocado and juicy garlic shrimp make these crostini the perfect appetizer. With smoky spices, fresh lime, and a satisfying crunch, this elegant dish is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. Ideal for parties or a light snack, it is a crowd-pleaser that comes together in just 25 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

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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Instructions

Toast the bread: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer. In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of olive oil with garlic powder and brush both sides of each baguette slice. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until crisp and golden.
Prepare the avocado spread: In a bowl, mash the avocado with lime juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Cover and set aside.
Cook the shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil over low heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes, flipping the shrimp once or twice, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
Assemble the crostini: Spread a generous layer of mashed avocado on each toasted baguette slice. Top with one shrimp per crostini, pressing gently to secure. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, but if using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.
Shrimp cook quickly, so watch them closely. They should turn pink and curl into a “C” shape.
If making ahead, toast the baguette slices and cook the shrimp separately, then assemble just before serving.
For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Stovetop, Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 crostini
Calories: 212 kcal
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 369 mg
Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 27 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 4 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg