Shrimp Bruschetta

Shrimp Bruschetta

Shrimp bruschetta is a delightful seafood appetizer that combines the savory sweetness of shrimp with the fresh flavors of tomatoes, garlic, and basil, all served atop crispy toasted bread.

This Italian-inspired dish takes the classic bruschetta to new heights, infusing it with succulent shrimp and vibrant, zesty toppings.

It’s perfect for a light starter, a party appetizer, or a casual snack. The balance of flavors and textures in this dish is sure to please seafood lovers and anyone looking for a fresh twist on a traditional favorite.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Topping:

1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Tomato Topping:

2 medium tomatoes, diced

1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toasted Bread:

1 loaf of baguette or French bread

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 clove garlic, halved

How to Make

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque.

Add the minced garlic and smoked paprika to the skillet with the shrimp, stirring for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Remove the shrimp from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over them. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, red onion, and chopped basil.

Drizzle the balsamic vinegar and olive oil over the mixture and toss gently to combine.

Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside to let the flavors marinate while you prepare the bread.

Step 3: Toast the Bread

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Slice the baguette into 1-inch thick slices and place them on a baking sheet.

Brush both sides of the bread with olive oil, then bake for about 5-7 minutes, or until the bread is golden and crispy.

Once toasted, rub the cut sides of the garlic clove over the top of each slice of bread for extra flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Shrimp Bruschetta

Once the shrimp are slightly cooled, chop them into bite-sized pieces.

Spoon the tomato mixture onto each slice of toasted bread.

Top each piece of bread with a generous portion of shrimp, making sure to distribute the shrimp evenly across the bruschetta.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the shrimp bruschetta immediately while the bread is still warm and crispy. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can also be served at room temperature.

Chef’s Note

For a different twist, you can use grilled shrimp instead of sautéed shrimp for a smoky flavor.

If you prefer a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture or sprinkle on top of the shrimp before serving.

To make this dish even more elegant, you can drizzle a little extra balsamic glaze over the bruschetta just before serving for a touch of sweetness and shine.

If you don’t have fresh basil, you can substitute it with fresh oregano or thyme for a different herb profile.

You can prepare the shrimp and tomato mixture ahead of time and assemble the bruschetta right before serving to keep the bread crispy.

Nutrition Information (per serving, serves 4)

Calories: 280

Protein: 20g

Carbohydrates: 24g

Fat: 14g

Fiber: 2g

Sugar: 4g

Sodium: 600mg

Shrimp bruschetta is a refreshing and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of juicy shrimp, fresh tomatoes, and crispy bread offers a balance of textures and flavors that will impress your guests. It’s quick to make, light yet satisfying, and bursting with vibrant, summery flavors. Enjoy this dish as a starter at a dinner party or as a snack with friends and family!