These Garlic Shrimp Toasts are a vibrant, protein-packed appetizer that combines succulent shrimp with creamy avocado and crisp baguette slices.
Rich in heart-healthy fats from avocado and olive oil, this dish is high in protein, fiber, and low in saturated fat.
Quick to prepare and perfect for entertaining, it’s an everyday-friendly recipe that’s flavorful, satisfying, and ideal for a light lunch, snack, or party bite.
Garlic Shrimp Toast
Equipment
- 1 Large resealable plastic bag
- 1 Small Mixing Bowl
- 1 Grill (charcoal or gas)
- 1 Grill rack (greased)
- 1 Pair metal skewers
- 1 Knife and cutting board
- 1 Spoon for spreading
Ingredients
- 16 raw shrimp peeled and deveined
- ¼ cup + 3 tbsp garlic-flavored olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- ¾ tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 large avocado
- 1 ½ tbsp red onion finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 ½ tsp fresh jalapeño minced
- 8 slices French baguette 3/8-inch thick
- Lemon zest for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp: Place peeled and deveined shrimp into a large resealable plastic bag. In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup garlic-flavored olive oil, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 2 teaspoons minced garlic, ¾ teaspoon sea salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Pour the marinade over the shrimp, seal the bag, and gently massage it to ensure all shrimp are coated evenly. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, turning occasionally to allow the flavors to fully infuse.
- Prepare the Guacamole Spread: While the shrimp marinates, mash the avocado in a medium bowl until creamy but slightly chunky for texture. Add 1 ½ tablespoons finely chopped red onion, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1 ½ teaspoons minced jalapeño, ¾ teaspoon garlic, and ¼ teaspoon sea salt. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated. Set aside, covering lightly with plastic wrap to prevent browning.
- Preheat and Prepare the Grill: Heat a charcoal or gas grill to medium-high heat (approximately 375°F / 190°C). Lightly brush the grill rack with oil to prevent sticking. Proper heat ensures crisp baguette slices and perfectly seared shrimp.
- Prep the Shrimp and Bread for Grilling: Remove shrimp from the marinade, letting excess liquid drip off, and pat dry with paper towels. Thread shrimp evenly onto metal skewers. Brush both sides of each baguette slice with the remaining 3 tablespoons of garlic-flavored olive oil to enhance flavor and promote even toasting.
- Grill the Shrimp and Baguette Slices: Place the shrimp skewers and baguette slices on the preheated grill. Cook for 4–6 minutes, turning shrimp halfway through to ensure even cooking. Shrimp are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), turn pink, and have opaque flesh. Bread should be golden and crisp. Monitor carefully to prevent burning or overcooking.
- Assemble the Garlic Shrimp Toasts: Spread a generous layer of guacamole on one side of each baguette slice. Place two grilled shrimp on top of each slice. Sprinkle lightly with lemon zest and chopped cilantro for added flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for extra freshness.
- Optional Serving Enhancements: For extra flavor, drizzle a small amount of garlic-flavored olive oil over the assembled toasts or sprinkle with smoked paprika. Pair with a crisp salad, light soup, or chilled white wine for a complete, elegant appetizer or light meal.
Notes
- Always use fresh, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- Ripe avocado is essential for creamy, smooth guacamole; slightly under-ripe avocados will result in a firmer, less flavorful spread.
- Marinating shrimp for at least 1 hour enhances flavor but avoid over-marinating as acidic lemon juice can start to “cook” the shrimp.
- Use a sturdy baguette or artisan French bread; thinner or soft bread may become soggy when layered with guacamole and shrimp.
- Grill shrimp and bread over medium-high heat to get crisp toasts and perfectly cooked shrimp without burning.
- Adjust jalapeño and garlic amounts to taste for a milder or spicier flavor profile.
Chef’s Secrets: Perfect Shrimp Toasts Everytime
The key to flawless garlic shrimp toasts lies in ingredient quality and timing.
Using fresh shrimp ensures they stay tender and juicy rather than rubbery.
Don’t skip patting the shrimp dry before grilling, as this step helps them sear beautifully.
For guacamole, slightly chunky avocado adds a satisfying texture and balances the richness of the shrimp.
Preheating the grill properly and brushing the baguette with olive oil ensures a golden, crisp toast that won’t get soggy under the toppings.
A final sprinkle of lemon zest elevates the aroma, giving each bite a fresh, vibrant note.
Serving Suggestions: Delicious Ideas For Presentation
These garlic shrimp toasts are incredibly versatile for serving.
Arrange them on a platter with lemon wedges and extra cilantro for a colorful, elegant presentation.
They pair beautifully with a crisp green salad or a light soup for lunch, or serve as part of a tapas spread with marinated olives, roasted vegetables, and cheese for entertaining.
For a casual snack, place them on a small cutting board or wooden tray with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
Serve warm to enjoy the contrast between the creamy guacamole, tender shrimp, and crisp toast.
Storage Tips: Keeping Toasts Fresh Longer
For best results, assemble the shrimp toasts just before serving.
If you need to prep ahead, store cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Guacamole can be prepared in advance, but press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent browning.
Toasted baguette slices can be stored at room temperature in a sealed bag for 1–2 days and re-crisped in the oven before serving.
Avoid assembling too early, as the bread can become soggy from the guacamole.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating.
Frozen shrimp may release more moisture, which can affect grilling and the final texture.
2. Can this recipe be made without a grill?
Absolutely! You can use a grill pan, cast-iron skillet, or even broil the shrimp and baguette slices in the oven.
Adjust cooking times to ensure shrimp are opaque and bread is crisp.
3. Can I make this recipe spicier or milder?
Yes! Adjust the amount of jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
For a milder version, remove the seeds from the jalapeño or reduce the amount.
4. How do I keep guacamole from turning brown?
Press plastic wrap directly on the surface of the guacamole and refrigerate until ready to use. Lime juice in the recipe also helps slow browning.
5. Can I make these ahead for a party?
You can prep shrimp, guacamole, and bread slices ahead, but assemble just before serving.
This ensures the bread remains crisp and the shrimp fresh, giving the best texture and flavor.
