Description
Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer featuring crispy baguette slices topped with creamy mashed avocado and flavorful sautéed shrimp seasoned with smoked paprika and cumin. Ready in just 25 minutes, this elegant dish is perfect for entertaining or a light snack.
Ingredients
Bread and Oil
- 10-12 baguette slices (about 1/2" thick)
- 6 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Avocado Spread
- 1 avocado
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Shrimp Topping
- 12 large shrimp, peeled, deveined
- 2 big garlic cloves, cut into slivers
- 3/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare Crostini: Preheat your oven to 350°F and position the rack at the top. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the baguette slices in an even layer to ensure they toast evenly.
- Make Garlic Oil and Bake Bread: In a small bowl, mix 3 tbsp olive oil with the garlic powder. Brush this mixture on both sides of the baguette slices thoroughly. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the slices reach your desired crispness.
- Prepare the Avocado Spread: While the crostini are baking, mash the avocado in a small bowl. Add lime juice, salt, and black pepper and mix well to create a smooth, flavorful spread. Set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat the remaining 3 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over low heat. Add the garlic slivers and gently cook for about 2 minutes to infuse the oil. Increase the heat to medium-high, then add the shrimp, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook the shrimp for approximately 5 minutes, turning once or twice, until they turn pink and are fully cooked.
- Assemble Crostini: Spread each toasted baguette slice with the mashed avocado mixture. Top with the cooked shrimp and serve immediately to enjoy the perfect contrast of creamy and crunchy textures.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro or parsley on top before serving.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Use ripe but firm avocados to achieve the best texture for the spread.
- Leftover crostini and shrimp can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to one day but are best served fresh.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
