Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado – A Flavorful Bite Worth Sharing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is quick to prepare, visually appealing, and packed with flavor. It combines fresh ingredients with bold garlic notes and works well for entertaining or everyday meals. Each bite feels satisfying without being heavy.

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Ingredients

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

Shrimp are the star of the dish. Medium-sized shrimp cook quickly and stay juicy when sautéed briefly with garlic.

Olive oil is used for cooking the shrimp and adds a smooth, fruity base to the garlic flavor.

Garlic provides the bold, aromatic backbone of the recipe. Freshly minced garlic gives the best results.

Salt enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp and balances the flavors.

Black pepper adds gentle warmth and depth without overpowering the dish.

Red pepper flakes are optional but bring a subtle heat that pairs well with garlic and shrimp.

Baguette slices form the crostini base. Toasting them creates a crisp foundation that holds the toppings well.

Avocado adds creaminess and richness, balancing the savory shrimp beautifully.

Lemon juice brightens the avocado and prevents it from browning while adding fresh acidity.

Fresh parsley adds color and a clean, herbaceous finish.

Directions

Begin by slicing the baguette and toasting the slices until golden and crisp. Set aside to cool slightly.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.

Add the shrimp, season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, and cook until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.

In a small bowl, mash the avocado with lemon juice and a pinch of salt until smooth but slightly chunky.

Spread a generous layer of avocado onto each toasted baguette slice.

Top with garlic shrimp, ensuring each crostini gets a balanced amount.

Finish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about twelve crostini.

Preparation time is about 15 minutes.
Cooking time is approximately 10 minutes.
Total time is around 25 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Crostini are best served fresh. If needed, store the shrimp separately in the refrigerator for up to one day and assemble just before serving. Avocado topping should be made fresh.

Variations and Customizations

Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado is easy to adapt depending on taste and occasion. For a brighter flavor, add finely grated lemon zest to the avocado spread. I tried this once, and it added a refreshing citrus note that paired beautifully with the shrimp.

You can also mix a small amount of cream cheese or Greek yogurt into the avocado for extra creaminess.

For a Mediterranean twist, add chopped cherry tomatoes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

If shrimp is unavailable, smoked salmon or sautéed mushrooms make excellent alternatives while keeping the dish elegant and flavorful.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dish provides lean protein from shrimp and healthy fats from avocado. It is relatively light while still satisfying, making it a great choice for balanced eating.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Perfect Shrimp Texture
Cook shrimp just until opaque to keep them tender.

Crisp Crostini
Toast bread thoroughly so it does not soften under toppings.

Balanced Assembly
Assemble just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.

What type of bread works best?

A baguette or any crusty bread is ideal.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Prepare components separately and assemble before serving.

Is this dish spicy?

It is mild, but heat can be increased with more red pepper flakes.

Can I add cheese?

Yes, a light sprinkle of Parmesan works well.

How do I keep avocado from browning?

Use lemon juice and cover tightly until serving.

Can I grill the shrimp?

Yes, grilling adds a nice smoky flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free option.

Can I serve this cold?

It is best with warm shrimp, but it can be served at room temperature.

What drinks pair well with this?

Light white wines or sparkling water pair nicely.

Conclusion

Garlic Shrimp Crostini with Avocado is a simple yet refined dish that delivers bold flavor in every bite. With its crisp base, creamy topping, and savory shrimp, it is perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a light meal. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, this recipe is one you will return to whenever you want something fresh, flavorful, and impressive.

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