Tangy Mediterranean Shrimp Bruschetta
A vibrant and flavorful appetizer featuring toasted baguette slices topped with succulent, seasoned shrimp, a fresh tomato and basil mixture, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs and Parmesan.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Large skillet
- Medium bowl
- Knife
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf Crusty baguette or artisan bread sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1/4 cup Olive oil good quality, plus more for drizzling
- 3 Garlic cloves 2 for rubbing bread, 1 minced for shrimp
- 1 lb Fresh shrimp peeled, deveined, tails on or off
- 1 pint Cherry or grape tomatoes halved
- 1/4 cup Fresh basil leaves finely chopped
- 1/4 cup Red onion finely diced
- 2 tbsp Balsamic glaze for drizzling
- 1/2 tsp Red pepper flakes optional
- 1/2 tsp Salt or to taste
- 1/4 tsp Freshly cracked black pepper or to taste
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese shaved, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the baguette, arrange on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and toast for 5-7 minutes until golden and crisp. Immediately rub each toasted slice with 2 garlic cloves.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then sauté the minced garlic and diced red onion for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using), then remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine the halved tomatoes, chopped fresh basil, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper, gently tossing to combine.
- Spoon a generous amount of the tomato and basil mixture onto each toasted bread slice.
- Top each bruschetta with 2-3 cooked shrimp.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the assembled bruschetta.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and shaved Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
Notes
You can prepare the tomato mixture and cook the shrimp ahead of time, then assemble the bruschetta just before serving. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your preferred spice level. Using good quality olive oil will enhance the flavor of this dish.