Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado – Elegant, Fresh & Flavor-Packed

If you’re looking for a bite-sized appetizer that feels fancy yet is easy to pull off, Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado is a perfect choice. These golden crostini are topped with creamy mashed avocado, sautéed garlic shrimp, and a touch of citrus — a vibrant combination that’s fresh, savory, and irresistibly delicious.

Perfect for holiday parties, brunch buffets, or warm-weather gatherings, this recipe blends buttery shrimp, garlicky depth, and creamy avocado into a delightful handheld bite. With crusty baguette slices as the base, they’re crisp on the outside and loaded with flavor on top.

They come together quickly and are easy to prep ahead, making them an ideal elegant appetizer for entertaining.

Ingredients Overview

Let’s break down the components that make these crostini shine:

Baguette (for the crostini)

• Use a French or sourdough baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds.

• Lightly toasted in olive oil for a crisp, golden base.

• You can bake or pan-toast them — both methods work.

Shrimp

• Use medium or large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined.

• Tail-off shrimp are best for easy eating.

• Cooked with garlic, lemon, and olive oil for a bright, buttery finish.

Avocado

• Ripe avocado mashed with lime juice and salt creates a creamy, fresh layer.

• Acts as the “spread” that holds the shrimp on the crostini.

• Optional: Add a pinch of chili flakes or chopped cilantro for extra zest.

Garlic & Olive Oil

• Garlic is sautéed gently to flavor the oil and shrimp.

• Use extra virgin olive oil for rich flavor and to brush the bread before toasting.

Citrus

• A splash of lemon or lime juice brings brightness and helps balance the richness of the avocado and shrimp.

Garnish Options

• Fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or chives

• Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

• Lemon zest for extra citrus aroma

• Microgreens or arugula for a fresh, peppery finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

These crostini are easy to prep and assemble. Here’s how to make them:

1. Toast the Crostini

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Slice 1 baguette into ½-inch rounds (about 20 pieces).

• Brush each slice with olive oil and arrange on a baking sheet.

• Bake for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.

• Optional: Rub each slice with a cut clove of garlic after baking for more flavor.

2. Prepare the Avocado Spread

In a bowl, mash:

• 2 ripe avocados

• Juice of 1 lime

• Salt to taste

• Optional: a pinch of garlic powder or chili flakes

Set aside. Press plastic wrap against the surface to prevent browning if prepping ahead.

3. Cook the Garlic Shrimp

• Heat 1½ tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

• Add 3 cloves garlic, minced. Sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

• Add 1 lb shrimp, seasoned with salt and pepper.

• Cook 2–3 minutes per side until opaque and pink.

• Squeeze over the juice of ½ lemon and remove from heat.

• Optional: Add a pinch of paprika or red pepper flakes.

4. Assemble the Crostini

• Spread a generous spoonful of mashed avocado on each toasted baguette slice.

• Top with 1–2 shrimp, depending on size.

• Garnish with fresh herbs, microgreens, or lemon zest as desired.

5. Serve Immediately

Serve while shrimp are still warm or at room temperature. Arrange on a platter and enjoy!

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

• Make it spicy: Add sriracha or chipotle powder to the avocado mash or sprinkle chili flakes on top.

• Add cheese: Spread a thin layer of goat cheese or cream cheese before avocado for a richer bite.

• Try grilled shrimp: Use grilled shrimp for a smokier version — great for summer parties.

• Low-carb option: Serve over cucumber rounds or lettuce cups instead of bread.

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free baguette or crackers.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado is perfect for:

• Cocktail parties and holiday appetizers

• Brunch buffets or bridal showers

• Summer picnics and al fresco dinners

• Light lunches paired with salad or soup

Serve with:

• Sparkling wine or white wine

• Fresh lemonade or citrusy mocktails

• A side of marinated olives or fresh fruit

Nutritional & Health Notes

This appetizer is a lighter, fresh take on classic crostini:

• Avocado provides heart-healthy fats and fiber

• Shrimp offers lean protein and B vitamins

• No heavy cream or cheese needed for flavor

Approximate nutrition per crostini (1 of 20):

• Calories: ~110

• Protein: 7g

• Carbs: 6g

• Fat: 7g

• Fiber: 1g

To reduce carbs further, serve without bread or over cucumber slices.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?

A1: You can prep the components ahead — toast the bread, cook the shrimp, and mash the avocado (store with plastic wrap pressed to surface). Assemble just before serving for best texture.

Q2: Can I serve these cold?

A2: Yes, they taste great at room temperature too. Just make sure the shrimp are fully cooked and chilled if storing ahead.

Q3: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

A3: Yes, but sauté them briefly with garlic and olive oil to warm and infuse flavor before using.

Q4: How long do leftovers last?

A4: Assembled crostini are best enjoyed fresh. Leftovers can get soggy due to the avocado and shrimp moisture. For storage, keep components separate.

Q5: What bread works best?

A5: French baguette, ciabatta, or any firm bread that toasts well and holds toppings. Thin, crispy slices are ideal.

Q6: Can I make this dairy-free and gluten-free?

A6: The recipe is naturally dairy-free. Use gluten-free bread or serve on sliced cucumbers for a gluten-free version.

Q7: How do I keep the avocado green?

A7: Add extra lime juice and store tightly sealed with plastic wrap directly on the surface of the mash to limit oxidation.

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