As I stood by the stovetop, the enticing aroma of sizzling garlic wafted through my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. There’s a certain magic that happens when you combine garlic shrimp with creamy avocado, all sitting atop a crispy crostini. This Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado recipe is not only a quick appetizer you can whip up in just 25 minutes, but it’s also a surefire way to impress any crowd. Rich in healthy fats and packed with flavor, this dish beautifully merges textures, creating the perfect balance in every bite. Plus, it’s versatile enough for your next gathering or a cozy night in. Are you ready to transform a few simple ingredients into a stunning culinary masterpiece? Why is This Recipe a Must-Try? Speedy Preparation: This recipe is ready in just 25 minutes, making it the ideal choice for last-minute gatherings or cozy nights at home. Textural Delight: Enjoy the perfect contrast of a crispy crostini topped with creamy avocado and succulent shrimp, creating a mouthwatering bite every time. Flexible Ingredients: Experiment by swapping shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu, or add fresh herbs for a twist. It’s a dish that invites your creativity! Health Conscious: Packed with healthy fats from avocado and protein from shrimp, this appetizer strikes a perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether served at your next party or enjoyed at a quiet dinner, it’s guaranteed to impress your guests. Pair it with chilled Sauvignon Blanc for the ultimate culinary experience! Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado Ingredients For the Crostini Baguette – Provides structure and crunch as the base; substitute with gluten-free bread for a gluten-free option. Olive Oil – Essential for brushing the baguette; you can use any neutral oil for sautéing too. For the Shrimp Shrimp – The star protein, seasoned perfectly for smoky flavor; feel free to use chicken or tofu for a variation. Garlic – Enhances flavor depth; fresh garlic is best, though garlic powder can work in a pinch. Paprika – Adds a smoky touch to the shrimp; swap for chili powder for an extra spice kick. Cumin – Gives warmth and earthiness; you can omit it or substitute with coriander for a different profile. Salt & Pepper – Essential for enhancing the flavors; adjust to your taste. For the Avocado Spread Avocado – Adds creaminess and healthy fats; substitute with hummus for a unique twist. Lime Juice – Brightens the dish and complements the avocado; lemon juice makes a great alternative. These Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado ingredients create a delicious, easy appetizer that you won’t want to miss! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado Step 1: Prep Crostini Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the baguette into ½-inch thick pieces and lay them on a baking sheet. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil to enhance crispiness. Bake for about 8–10 minutes, or until golden brown, turning halfway through for even cooking. The crostini should be crunchy and ready to hold the toppings. Step 2: Cook Shrimp In a medium skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant—be careful not to let it burn! Next, add the shrimp and season with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, indicating they’re perfectly cooked. Step 3: Prepare Avocado While the shrimp cooks, scoop the avocado into a mixing bowl. Add fresh lime juice, salt, and pepper, then mash with a fork until smooth yet slightly chunky. This avocado spread adds creaminess to the Garlic Shrimp Crostini, providing a refreshing contrast to the smoky shrimp. Set aside once combined. Step 4: Assemble Once the crostini is baked and the shrimp is cooked, it’s time to assemble your delicious appetizer. Spread a generous layer of the avocado mixture over each crunchy crostini and top with the sautéed shrimp. Arrange them on a serving platter for an eye-catching presentation, and enjoy the wonderful blend of flavors while it’s still warm! Expert Tips for Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Avoid overcooking shrimp; they should be just opaque and tender for the best texture. Crispy Crostini: Assemble the crostini right before serving to maintain that delightful crunch and prevent sogginess from the avocado. Freshness Matters: Use fresh lime juice for brightness in the avocado spread; bottled lime juice often lacks vibrancy and flavor. Season to Taste: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper; they enhance the delicious flavors of your garlic shrimp crostini, so adjust according to your palate. Experiment Freely: This garlic shrimp crostini is versatile! Swap shrimp for grilled chicken or use tofu for a plant-based twist to suit your dietary needs. What to Serve with Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement each bite of this savory appetizer. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes provide a rich, velvety texture, creating a comfort food contrast to the crostini’s crunch. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette brightens the palate, balancing the richness of the shrimp and avocado. The crunch of fresh greens adds a delightful layer of texture. Roasted Asparagus: Tender, caramelized asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds both elegance and a nutty flavor. Its slight bitterness beautifully complements the creamy elements of the dish. Garlic Bread: Keep the garlic theme going! Slices of crispy garlic bread are perfect for mopping up any leftover avocado and shrimp. Everyone loves a bit of indulgence! Crusty Baguette: Serve extra slices of baguette on the side. They’re perfect for those who want an additional crunch or a sturdy vessel for the delicious toppings. Citrus Cocktails: Refreshing cocktails like a lemon mojito or a spritz drink bring a zingy brightness that harmonizes with the lime in the avocado, creating a pleasant drinking experience. Mango Salsa: A sweet, fruity salsa offers a vibrant contrast to the savory shrimp. The tropical flavors and vibrant colors will make your meal visually stunning and delicious. Chilled White Wine: An ice-cold Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish perfectly, enhancing the flavors while keeping the meal light and refreshing. Each of these pairings adds a distinctive flair, making for a beautifully rounded meal that leaves a lasting impression! How to Store and Freeze Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado Room Temperature: Enjoy your Garlic Shrimp Crostini immediately, as they are best served fresh. Leaving them out for more than 2 hours can lead to sogginess. Fridge: If you have leftovers, store the separate components (crostini and toppings) in airtight containers. The avocado spread can stay fresh for up to 2 days in the fridge, while the shrimp can last about 2 days as well. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked shrimp in a sealed bag or container for up to 3 months. However, it’s best to savor the crostini fresh, as freezing can impact their texture. Reheating: To reheat, thaw the shrimp overnight in the fridge and gently sauté until heated through. To restore crispness, re-bake crostini for a few minutes in the oven before assembling. Make Ahead Options Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado is an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors with less last-minute effort. You can prepare the crostini up to 24 hours in advance by baking and storing them in an airtight container at room temperature, which maintains their crunch. The avocado mixture can also be prepped and stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days; just cover it tightly to prevent browning. When you’re ready to serve, sauté the shrimp fresh, then assemble everything just before enjoying to ensure that the crostini stay crisp and the avocado remains vibrant and creamy. This way, you’ll have a fantastic appetizer with minimal fuss! Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado Variations Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these delightful twists! Dairy-Free: Replace creaminess of avocado with hummus for a texture change that’s still satisfying and flavorful. Gluten-Free: Swap the baguette for gluten-free bread or rice crackers, creating a light and airy base for your toppings. Extra Veggies: Add diced tomatoes or finely chopped bell peppers on top for a burst of color and freshness in every bite. Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the shrimp for a vibrant, aromatic experience with each mouthful. Spicy Kick: Drizzle with chili oil or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the crostini for a spicy kick that wakes up your taste buds! Smoky Flavor Boost: Incorporate smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for an even deeper smoky complexity in the shrimp flavor. Citrusy Twist: Use lemon juice in place of lime for a different zest that pairs beautifully with the avocado. Protein Variation: Switch the shrimp for grilled chicken or even marinated tofu; both bring their own deliciousness to this crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for more ways to enjoy shrimp, give these Garlic Shrimp Mashed potatoes a try! Or, for something completely different but equally delightful, explore these Shrimp Rice Bowls. Enjoy your culinary adventure! Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado Recipe FAQs What type of baguette should I use for the crostini? Absolutely! Use a fresh, crusty baguette for the best texture. Look for one with a golden-brown crust and a soft interior. If you need a gluten-free option, any gluten-free bread with a similar texture will work just fine! How should I store leftovers? If you have any leftovers, it’s best to store the components separately. Place the crostini in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The avocado spread can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 days as well, but be sure to press plastic wrap directly against the surface to prevent browning. Can I freeze the shrimp? Yes! You can freeze the cooked shrimp for added convenience. Seal them in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible, and they can be kept for up to 3 months. Just remember, freezing the crostini after they’re baked isn’t recommended, as it may affect their crunchiness. Why did my shrimp turn out rubbery? Very often, rubbery shrimp is a result of overcooking. To avoid this, cook them just until they are pink and opaque; this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If in doubt, take one out and cut it to check—better safe than sorry! Is this recipe suitable for someone with a shellfish allergy? Certainly! If you or your guests have a shellfish allergy, you can easily substitute shrimp with cooked chicken or tofu. This will still provide a delicious and satisfying appetizer without the risk of allergens. How can I make my avocado spread last longer? To extend the freshness of your avocado spread, add a splash of lemon or lime juice to the mixture. The acidity helps prevent oxidation, keeping it vibrant and green for longer. Ensure the spread is stored in an airtight container, too! Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado: A Flavorful Delight This Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado recipe combines garlic shrimp and creamy avocado on crispy crostini for a quick, impressive appetizer. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 25 minutes mins Servings: 4 crostinisCourse: AppetizersCuisine: InternationalCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crostini1 medium Baguette Substitute with gluten-free bread for a gluten-free option.2 tablespoons Olive Oil Essential for brushing the baguette; can use any neutral oil for sautéing.For the Shrimp1 pound Shrimp The star protein, seasoned perfectly for smoky flavor.3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is best.1 teaspoon Paprika Adds a smoky touch to the shrimp; swap for chili powder for spicy kick.1 teaspoon Cumin Gives warmth; can substitute or omit.to taste Salt Essential for flavor enhancement.to taste Pepper Essential for flavor enhancement.For the Avocado Spread2 medium Avocado Adds creaminess and healthy fats.1 tablespoon Lime Juice Brightens the dish. Equipment baking sheetskilletMixing bowl Method Cooking InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the baguette into ½-inch thick pieces and lay them on a baking sheet. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil to enhance crispiness. Bake for about 8–10 minutes, or until golden brown, turning halfway through.In a medium skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Next, add the shrimp and season with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.While the shrimp cooks, scoop the avocado into a mixing bowl. Add fresh lime juice, salt, and pepper, then mash until smooth yet slightly chunky. Set aside.Once the crostini is baked and the shrimp is cooked, spread a layer of the avocado mixture over each crostini and top with the shrimp. Arrange on a serving platter. Nutrition Serving: 1crostiniCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 180mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg NotesBest served fresh; can substitute shrimp for chicken or tofu. Use fresh lime juice for best flavor in the avocado spread. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
