Lemon Herb Shrimp Crostini 🍋🧄🍤🌿 Bright, Zesty, and Crisp With Garlicky Shrimp and Fresh Herbs on Toasted Bread

This is your light-but-flavorful appetizer that’s both impressive and effortless. Juicy shrimp are sautéed with garlic, lemon, and herbs, then piled onto toasted crostini with a creamy or olive oil base.

The result? Fresh, tangy, and totally snackable.

Ingredients (Makes ~12 crostini)

For the shrimp

• ½ lb medium shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails off)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1–2 tbsp chopped parsley, dill, or basil
• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

For the crostini

• 1 small baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• Olive oil (for brushing)
• Optional: 1 clove garlic (for rubbing)

Optional base spread

• Whipped ricotta, goat cheese, or cream cheese
• Hummus or lemon aioli
• Olive tapenade or avocado mash

To finish

• Extra lemon zest
• More herbs for garnish
• Optional: drizzle of chili oil or balsamic glaze

Instructions

Step 1: Toast the crostini
Brush baguette slices with olive oil. Toast in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8–10 minutes until golden. Optional: rub with a cut garlic clove while warm for extra flavor.

Step 2: Cook the shrimp
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. Add shrimp, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Sauté 2–3 minutes until just pink. Stir in lemon zest, juice, and herbs. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble
Spread a thin layer of your chosen base on each toast. Top with 1–2 shrimp and a spoonful of garlicky pan juices. Finish with more herbs and lemon zest.

Step 4: Serve fresh
Best served warm or at room temperature within an hour of assembling.

Flavor Variations

• Use thyme, tarragon, or chives for a more aromatic twist
• Add avocado or whipped feta for creamy richness
• Swap lemon for orange or lime for a different citrus profile
• Try with seared scallops or crab for variation
• Add capers or a dash of Dijon to the base for punch

Pro Tips

• Don’t overcook the shrimp — they should be springy, not rubbery
• Prep all components ahead and assemble just before serving
• Use day-old bread for extra crisp crostini
• Toasting the bread on both sides prevents sogginess

Final Thoughts

Lemon Herb Shrimp Crostini are the ultimate fresh bite — simple, elegant, and full of citrus-herb brightness with a savory kick from the garlic shrimp. It’s the kind of party food that feels fancy but comes together fast.

Toast it. Sear it. Zest it up. 🍋🧄🍤🌿

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