This Grilled Shrimp and Avocado Crostini is the perfect elegant appetizer that combines smoky, juicy shrimp with creamy avocado atop a crispy baguette slice. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor and freshness, making it an ideal starter for parties, brunches, or light meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This crostini recipe brings together the vibrant flavors of grilled shrimp, fresh avocado, and crisp toasted bread. It’s not only visually impressive but also incredibly simple to prepare. The contrast of textures – creamy, crunchy, and juicy – provides a gourmet experience with minimal effort. Whether you are hosting guests or treating yourself, this dish elevates your appetizer game with restaurant-quality results.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- Fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt and black pepper
- Ripe avocados
- Lime juice
- Fresh arugula or microgreens
- Optional: red pepper flakes for garnish
Directions
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until opaque and slightly charred. Set aside.
- Toast the baguette slices on the grill or in a toaster until golden and crisp.
- In a separate bowl, mash the avocado with lime juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Spread the mashed avocado generously on each toasted baguette slice.
- Top with a small handful of arugula or microgreens.
- Place one grilled shrimp on each crostini.
- Optionally, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: Makes 12–16 crostini
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a drizzle of sriracha or spicy aioli over the top.
- Citrus Twist: Garnish with lemon or lime zest for a bright finish.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with grilled zucchini or roasted cherry tomatoes.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Add a thin layer of goat cheese beneath the avocado for added creaminess.
Storage/Reheating
These crostini are best served fresh. However, components can be prepped in advance:
- Shrimp: Can be grilled and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Avocado mixture: Should be stored with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to avoid browning, up to 1 day.
- Toasted bread: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Avoid assembling in advance to prevent sogginess. Reheat shrimp briefly in a skillet or microwave before serving.
FAQs
What kind of shrimp should I use?
Medium or large shrimp, peeled and deveined, work best. Fresh or frozen (thawed) both work well.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare all components ahead, but assemble just before serving to keep the crostini crisp.
How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
Use lime juice and store it with plastic wrap pressed against the surface to reduce oxidation.
Can I use another type of bread?
Yes, sourdough, ciabatta, or even whole grain bread can be used instead of baguette.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Not by default, but you can use gluten-free bread to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.
What can I serve alongside these crostini?
They pair well with sparkling wine, light salads, or a crisp white wine.
Can I cook the shrimp without a grill?
Yes, a stovetop grill pan or even a skillet will work just fine.
How spicy is the dish?
It’s mildly spiced from the paprika and optional red pepper flakes. You can adjust heat to taste.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, though freshly grilled shrimp offer better flavor and texture.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Absolutely. Simply reduce or omit the spice to make it more kid-friendly.
Conclusion
Grilled Shrimp and Avocado Crostini is a quick yet refined appetizer that showcases the best of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you’re entertaining or enjoying a quiet evening in, this dish promises satisfaction with minimal effort. Try it once, and it may just become your go-to starter for any occasion.
PrintGrilled Shrimp and Avocado Crostini
Grilled Shrimp and Avocado Crostini is a light and flavorful appetizer featuring juicy shrimp, creamy avocado, and crispy toasted baguette slices. Perfect for parties or summer gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 12 crostini 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, halved
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 ripe avocados, mashed
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional: red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Brush baguette slices lightly with olive oil and grill until golden brown and crisp. Rub each slice with garlic for flavor.
- In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
- In a small bowl, mash avocados with lime juice, salt, pepper, and cilantro.
- Spread avocado mixture on toasted baguette slices.
- Top each crostini with a grilled shrimp.
- Garnish with red pepper flakes if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use sourdough or ciabatta bread for extra flavor.
- For added zest, drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
- Can be prepared ahead by toasting bread and grilling shrimp, then assembling just before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 crostini
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
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