Description
This Shrimp and Avocado Garlic Bread is a deliciously savory appetizer combining buttery garlic bread with succulent cooked shrimp and creamy avocado, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for gatherings or as a sophisticated starter, it offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors, enhanced by fresh lemon juice and parsley.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Butter Mixture
- 1 loaf of French bread, halved lengthwise
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Toppings
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the garlic bread.
- Prepare Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter with minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to create a flavorful garlic butter spread.
- Spread Garlic Butter on Bread: Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the halved French bread, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
- Add Shrimp and Avocado: Sprinkle the chopped cooked shrimp evenly over the garlic butter coated bread, then layer the diced ripe avocado on top.
- Top with Cheese: Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp and avocado layer to create a rich, melty topping.
- Bake the Bread: Place the bread halves on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the garlic bread from the oven, drizzle fresh lemon juice over the top, and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Slice the bread into servings and enjoy warm.
Notes
- Use pre-cooked shrimp for added convenience and to reduce prep time.
- For an extra smoky flavor, grill the bread before applying the garlic butter and toppings.
- You can substitute French bread with sourdough or ciabatta based on preference.
