Shrimp Cream on Rustic Bread

This delightful dish brings together the smooth flavor of cream cheese with the briny taste of shrimp. Perfect for a light lunch or an elegant appetizer, it features creamy shrimp spread atop hearty slices of rustic bread, known for its unique nutty taste. Accompanied by a velvety egg mousse and fresh vegetables, each bite offers a burst of flavors and textures. The cream cheese and shrimp form a luxurious spread enhanced by the tanginess of lime juice and a hint of sweetness from honey. Capers add a savory punch, while cucumbers and radishes provide a refreshing crunch. Easy to prepare and quick to assemble, this dish is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a gourmet experience at home. With just 20 minutes from start to finish, it’s an ideal choice for a stress-free yet sophisticated meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a special treat for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 slices of rustic bread
180g cream cheese
150g shrimp in brine
6 egg yolks
2 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tsp mustard
1 tbsp small capers
1 small cucumber
4 radishes
1 lime

Preparation Time

Total: 20 minutes (Preparation: 10 minutes, Cooking: 10 minutes)

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the shrimp cream: In a blender, combine the cream cheese with half of the shrimp. Add lime juice, salt, black pepper, and a touch of honey to taste. Blend until smooth.
Make the egg mousse: Place the egg yolks in a bowl. Blend together with mayonnaise and mustard until you achieve a smooth consistency.
Assemble the toast: Begin by spreading the shrimp cream evenly over each slice of rustic bread.
Carefully spoon the egg mousse on top of the shrimp spread, ensuring it covers the cream well.
Garnish beautifully: Arrange the remaining shrimp over the egg mousse.
Add vegetables for freshness: Thinly slice the cucumber and radishes. Lay them over the top, arranging artfully for visual appeal.
Sprinkle a few capers on each toast to add a briny burst of flavor.
Finish with a squeeze of lime: Carefully squeeze a bit of lime juice over each assembled toast for a fresh zest.
Serve and enjoy: Arrange the toasts on a serving platter and enjoy immediately.
Optional serving technique: Slice each toast diagonally for easier handling and an elegant presentation.

Tips

Substitutions: Swap cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter spread.
Cooking Technique: Chill the spread and mousse for 10 minutes before assembling for a firmer texture.
Enhancements: Add a sprinkle of paprika for a hint of spice or dill for an herbal note.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 280 per serving
Protein: 12g
Fats: 18g
Carbs: 16g

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the shrimp with roasted bell pepper for a vegetarian version.
Gluten-Free Choice: Use gluten-free bread to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped jalapeño to the shrimp cream for those who love heat.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Pair with a light green salad or a bowl of tomato soup.
Garnishes: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added color.
Beverage Pairings: Serve with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon.

Best Places

Chez Panisse Café - Known for its innovative Californian cuisine with seasonal, sustainable ingredients. Location: 1517 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, USA.
Noma - Famous for its inventive Nordic dishes and use of local foraged ingredients. Location: Refshalevej 96, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Le Bernardin - Offers refined French seafood in an upscale setting. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, USA.
Attica - Celebrated for its inventive Australian dishes with home-grown produce. Location: 74 Glen Eira Rd, Ripponlea, Australia.
Pujol - Known for creative Mexican cuisine with a contemporary twist. Location: Tennyson 133, Polanco, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
El Celler de Can Roca - Renowned for its traditional Catalan dishes with a modern flair. Location: Carrer de Can Sunyer 48, Girona, Spain.
Osteria Francescana - Features avant-garde interpretations of classic Italian recipes. Location: Via Stella 22, Modena, Italy.
Blue Hill at Stone Barns - Sustainable farm-to-table dining experience. Location: 630 Bedford Rd, Tarrytown, USA.
Eleven Madison Park - Famous for its sophisticated New American cuisine in a chic setting. Location: 11 Madison Ave, New York, USA.
Mugaritz - Known for its innovative Basque dishes that engage all senses. Location: Aldura Aldea 20, Errenteria, Spain.