Zesty Shrimp Crostini – Festive Recipe

Ingredients

• • 1 baguette, sliced into 24 (1-inch) rounds
• • 8 ⅞ oz cream cheese, softened
• • ⅞ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• • 2 ⅞ tbsp fresh lemon juice
• • 2 ⅞ cloves garlic, minced
• • 1 ⅞ tbsp chopped fresh basil
• • 1 ⅞ lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• • 2 ⅞ tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• • 1 ⅞ tbsp olive oil
• • ⅞ tsp salt
• • ⅞ tsp black pepper
• • ⅞ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• • 1 ⅞ tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. 1

   Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet. Brush lightly with olive oil and toast in a preheated 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes until golden and crisp. Let cool slightly.

2. 2

   In a bowl, combine cream cheese, Parmesan, lemon juice, garlic, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until smooth and spreadable.

3. 3

   Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Set aside to cool slightly.

4. 4

   Spread a teaspoon of cheese mixture on each toasted baguette round. Top with a shrimp piece, a basil leaf, and a light Parmesan sprinkle.

5. 5

   Garnish with parsley and serve immediately, or refrigerate for 15 minutes to set cheese spread before serving.