Crispy Shrimp Toasts

Crispy shrimp toasts make for a delightful and savory appetizer or snack that's perfect for any occasion. These toasts feature a wonderful combination of flavors and textures, combining the buttery richness of cream cheese with the aromatic touch of garlic and fresh rosemary. The shrimp, lightly sautéed in butter and garlic, adds a deliciously tender and mouthwatering element against the crunchy base. These little bites are not only easy to prepare but also sure to impress your guests with their sophisticated taste. The dish is versatile enough for both casual gatherings and more formal occasions. Whether you're enjoying them yourself or serving them at a party, the crispy shrimp toasts provide a bite-sized burst of flavor. Plus, with the added option of customizing flavors or substituting ingredients, these toasts cater to various dietary preferences. Pair them with a refreshing drink, and you’ve got a hit on your hands.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 4 slices of toast bread
• 16 peeled tiger shrimp
• 4 tablespoons cream cheese
• 2 cloves of garlic
• A bit of fresh rosemary
• Butter

Spices

• Salt

Preparation Time

Total Time: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread: Spread butter on both sides of the bread slices.
2. Toast the Bread: Lightly toast the buttered bread in a pan over medium heat or use a toaster. The goal is to achieve a crisp exterior without making it too hard.
3. Chop the Rosemary: Finely chop the fresh rosemary and mix it with the cream cheese. This gives the spread a fragrant lift.
4. Prepare the Garlic: Peel the garlic cloves and chop them finely.
5. Cook the Garlic: In a small pan, melt a little butter and sauté the chopped garlic until it becomes aromatic but not browned.
6. Cook the Shrimp: Add the peeled tiger shrimp to the pan with the garlic and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Season with a tiny pinch of salt.
7. Slice the Bread: Cut the crusts off the toasted bread, then divide each slice into 4 equal parts.
8. Spread the Cream Cheese: Take a small portion of the rosemary cream cheese and spread it over each mini toast.
9. Add the Shrimp: Place one cooked shrimp on top of each cream cheese-covered toast.
10. Serve: Arrange the crispy shrimp toasts on a platter and serve immediately for the best experience.

Tips

• Substitutions: Use cream cheese with herbs if you prefer a shortcut on flavoring.
• Storage: Prepare the elements separately and assemble just before serving to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
• Garlic Flavors: Adjust the amount of garlic to suit your preference; some may enjoy a more pronounced garlic flavor.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 90 per toast
• Protein: 6g
• Fats: 4g
• Carbs: 7g

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to cater to dietary restrictions.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne to the cream cheese for a spicy variant.
• Herb Variation: Swap rosemary for dill or parsley for different herbal notes.

Serving Suggestions

• Pairing: Serve with a crisp white wine or a refreshing lemon soda.
• Side Dishes: Compliment these toasts with a fresh salad or a bowl of tangy gazpacho.

Best Places

Le Bernardin - Known for its exquisite seafood offerings and luxurious dining experience. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, USA.

Osteria Francescana - A beautiful blend of traditional Italian with contemporary flair. Location: Via Stella, 22, 41121 Modena MO, Italy.

The Clove Club - Celebrated for modern British fare with creative twists. Location: Shoreditch Town Hall, 380 Old St, London, UK.

Narisawa - A Tokyo hotspot famous for its innovative use of Japanese seasonal ingredients. Location: 2 Chome-6-15 Minami-Aoyama, Minato City, Tokyo, Japan.

Coi - With a focus on sustainable seafood and Californian flavors, this restaurant delights its guests. Location: 373 Broadway, San Francisco, USA.

Gaggan - Known for progressive Indian cuisine with a playful twist. Location: 68/1 Soi Langsuan, Ploenchit Road, Bangkok, Thailand.

White Rabbit - Located at the top of a skyscraper, offers spectacular Moscow views with modern Russian dishes. Location: Smolenskaya St., 5th floor, Moscow, Russia.

Cosme - A contemporary Mexican restaurant in the heart of New York City. Location: 35 E 21st St, New York, USA.

Quintonil - Serving innovative Mexican cuisine reflective of urban flavor profiles. Location: Avenida Isaac Newton 55, Mexico City, Mexico.

Attica - Celebrated for inventive and thought-provoking dishes in an elegant setting. Location: 74 Glen Eira Rd, Ripponlea VIC, Australia.