Grilled Shrimp and Avocado Crostini

Deliciously grilled shrimp and creamy avocado atop crisp crostini—an elegant appetizer that’s as visually appealing as it is flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sophisticated appetizer: Elegant, bite-sized, and perfect for entertaining.
• Balanced texture: Juicy shrimp, smooth avocado, and crunchy bread complement one another.
• Quick to prep: Minimal cooking and assembly, ready in about 20 minutes.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Lemon juice and zest
• Smoked paprika
• Salt & pepper
• Baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• Ripe avocado, mashed
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• Optional: chili flakes, red onion, radish slices

directions

1. Marinate shrimp: In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice and zest, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Prepare crostini: Brush baguette slices with olive oil. Toast under broiler or in skillet until golden on each side.
3. Grill shrimp: Heat grill or pan over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
4. Assemble: Spread mashed avocado on each crostini, top with a grilled shrimp, and garnish with parsley, chili flakes, or onion.
5. Serve: Arrange on a platter and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Yields about 24 crostini (serves 8 as appetizer).
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: ~20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy twist: Add chili powder or cayenne to the shrimp marinade.
• Cheesy addition: Crumble feta or goat cheese on crostini before adding shrimp.
• Fruit garnish: Top with a slice of fresh melon or mango for sweetness.
• Herb swap: Try basil or mint instead of parsley for different flavor notes.

storage/reheating

• Make-ahead: Toast crostini up to a day ahead and store in airtight container. Assemble just before serving.
• Shrimp storage: Cooked shrimp can be refrigerated 1 day ahead; reheat briefly before assembling crostini.
• Reheating assembled crostini: Not recommended—best served fresh.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes—thaw completely, pat dry, and proceed with marinade.

How do I prevent soggy crostini?

Toast bread well and assemble just before serving to retain crispness.

Can I use chicken instead of shrimp?

Grilled chicken slices work well—adjust cooking time accordingly.

Is this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free baguette slices or serve on cucumber rounds for a low-carb option.

Can I prepare shrimp ahead?

Yes—cook and refrigerate shrimp a day ahead; reheat gently before plating.

What kind of avocado is best?

Choose a ripe, slightly firm Hass avocado for easy spreading and creamy texture.

Are these kid-friendly?

Yes—omit spices for mild flavor and chop shrimp into smaller pieces.

Can I assemble it in advance?

Assemble up to 30 minutes before serving; add shrimp at last to preserve crispness.

What side dishes pair well?

Serve with a light salad, grilled vegetables, or a crisp white wine.

How do I ensure shrimp is tender?

Don’t overcook—just until opaque and pink, about 2–3 minutes per side.

Conclusion

These Grilled Shrimp and Avocado Crostini offer an elegant and easy-to-make appetizer showcasing succulent shrimp, creamy avocado, and toasted crostini. They’re the perfect starter for dinner parties, gatherings, or anytime you want something bite-sized and delicious.

Grilled Shrimp and Avocado Crostini

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Grilled Shrimp and Avocado Crostini is a light and elegant appetizer that features juicy, herb-marinated shrimp atop creamy mashed avocado on crispy toasted baguette slices. Perfect for summer entertaining, brunch, or a sophisticated snack.

• Author: Emma Harper
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 12 crostini 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Grilled
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
• 1 small baguette, sliced into 12 rounds
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes.
3. Grill shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until opaque and lightly charred. Set aside.
4. Brush baguette slices with olive oil and grill or toast until golden and crisp.
5. In a small bowl, mash avocado with lime juice, cilantro or parsley, and a pinch of salt.
6. Spread mashed avocado on each toasted baguette slice and top with a grilled shrimp.
7. Garnish with extra herbs or a squeeze of lime, if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

• Best served fresh; assemble just before serving to keep the bread crisp.
• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the avocado mash.
• Use pre-cooked shrimp to save time, but grill briefly for flavor and texture.
• Pairs well with white wine or a citrusy cocktail.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 crostini
• Calories: 110
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 45mg