Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado

Delightful appetizer featuring crispy crostini topped with creamy avocado and succulent shrimp, infused with garlic and spices.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 30

Course Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 4 servings

Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients

For the Crostini

10-12 slices Baguette slices Cut about ½ inch thick, crusty on the outside and soft on the inside.
6 tablespoons Olive oil Divided, opt for good quality extra virgin olive oil.
1 teaspoon Garlic powder For deep, aromatic flavor.

For the Avocado Spread

1 whole Avocado Make sure it’s perfectly ripe.
½ lime Lime juice Juice to add brightness and prevent browning.
¼ teaspoon Salt For seasoning.
¼ teaspoon Black pepper For seasoning.

For the Shrimp

12 large Shrimp Peeled and deveined.
2 cloves Garlic cloves Cut into slivers.
¾ teaspoon Smoked paprika For smoky depth of flavor.
½ teaspoon Cumin To complement the shrimp.
¼ teaspoon Salt For seasoning.
¼ teaspoon Black pepper For seasoning.
3 tablespoons Olive oil Remaining for cooking shrimp.

Instructions

Preparation of Crostini

Preheat your oven to 350°F and move the rack to the top.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Slice your baguette into 10 to 12 pieces, each about ½ inch thick, and lay them out on the baking sheet.
In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of olive oil with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir well.
Brush both sides of each baguette slice with the oil mixture.
Bake for about 10-15 minutes until crispy and golden.

Preparation of Avocado Spread

Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a bowl.
Mash it to your desired creaminess but leave it a bit chunky.
Squeeze in the lime juice, sprinkle in a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper, and mix well.

Cooking the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil over low heat.
Add the garlic slivers and let them sizzle for about 2 minutes.
Increase to medium-high heat and add the shrimp, seasoning with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
Cook the shrimp for about 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally until they turn bright pink and opaque.

Assembly and Serving

Right before serving, spread the avocado mixture generously on each crostini.
Top each crostini with a cooked shrimp and arrange beautifully.
Serve warm and enjoy with a squeeze of lime.

Notes

Store leftover crostini and avocado topping separately. Best enjoyed fresh. For twists, replace shrimp with scallops or grilled veggies, or add chili flakes for heat.

Keyword Appetizers, Avocado, Crostini, Easy Recipes, Garlic Shrimp