Easy Mediterranean Shrimp Bruschetta

Discovering Mediterranean Shrimp Bruschetta

My Favorite is Mediterranean Shrimp Bruschetta and When I first stumbled upon the idea for Mediterranean Shrimp Bruschetta, I was instantly excited. I had just returned from a trip to the Mediterranean and was craving the vibrant flavors I had enjoyed there. The fresh shrimp, tangy feta cheese, and zesty lemon dressing seemed like the perfect way to bring a bit of that sunshine back into my kitchen. I wanted to create something that would remind me of the bustling markets and colorful dishes, but also be easy enough to whip up for a casual get-together.

Crafting the Perfect Blend

The process of making this bruschetta is as delightful as the dish itself. I started by preparing the shrimp and mixing it with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and crunchy red onions. Adding crumbled feta and fresh thyme created a harmonious blend of flavors that took me right back to those Mediterranean meals. The lemon dressing, with its mix of tangy and sweet notes, was the finishing touch that made everything come together beautifully. It was a treat to see how all these ingredients melded into a refreshing and flavorful combination.

Toasting the Baguette

Toasting the baguette was like adding the final brushstroke to a masterpiece. I melted butter with garlic and parsley, then brushed it over the baguette slices before baking them. The aroma that filled my kitchen was irresistible, and the crispy, golden-brown slices were the perfect base for the shrimp mixture. Each bite of the bruschetta had a satisfying crunch, complemented by the creamy and tangy topping. It was a simple pleasure to see my friends’ faces light up when they tasted the warm, crunchy bruschetta topped with the vibrant shrimp mixture.

Sharing the Joy

Sharing Mediterranean Shrimp Bruschetta with friends and family has become one of my favorite ways to entertain. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a festive party, this dish never fails to impress. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both light and satisfying, capturing the essence of Mediterranean cuisine in each bite. I love hearing the compliments and seeing how everyone enjoys the fresh, vibrant flavors. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love cooking—bringing people together and sharing delicious food that creates happy memories.

Chef’s Notes-Mediterranean Shrimp Bruschetta

• Prepare the shrimp mixture and lemon dressing a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble the bruschetta just before serving for the best texture.
• To achieve the perfect crispiness, brush the baguette slices with the garlic butter mixture evenly. Ensure the oven is preheated to avoid uneven toasting.
• Experiment with different herbs such as basil or oregano in place of thyme for a unique twist. Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor.
• If the shrimp mixture seems too dry, add a splash more lemon juice or olive oil. The mixture should be slightly moist but not soggy.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of extra feta and a few more fresh herbs before serving for added flavor and visual appeal.

Mediterranean Shrimp Bruschetta

Course: AppetizerCuisine: MediterraneanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

8

minutes

Calories

220

kcal

Total time

28

minutes

Dive into the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this Shrimp Bruschetta! Perfect for any gathering, these appetizers are a delightful mix of succulent shrimp, tangy feta, and fresh veggies, all brought together with a zesty lemon dressing. The toasted baguette slices add the perfect crunch, making each bite irresistible. Try this recipe and impress your guests with a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying!

Ingredients

• Shrimp Mixture

• 1/2 pound cooked wild Gulf shrimp (16-20 count), chopped into bite-sized pieces

• 1 cup diced Roma tomatoes (about 1-2 large tomatoes)

• 1/3 cup finely chopped red onion

• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup peeled and cubed cucumber

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves

• Garlic Butter Baguette

• 1 baguette, sliced diagonally into 3/4-inch thick pieces

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp dried parsley

• 1 tsp granulated garlic

• Lemon Dressing

• Juice of 1 lemon (about 1/4 cup)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley

• 1 tbsp minced garlic

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

• Prepare Shrimp Mixture – Chop the cooked shrimp into bite-sized pieces. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with diced tomatoes, red onion, green onions, cucumber cubes, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh thyme leaves. Mix well.
• Make Lemon Dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, honey, chopped parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until fully emulsified. Pour this dressing over the shrimp mixture and stir to coat evenly. Refrigerate until ready to use.
• Prepare Garlic Butter Baguette – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter, olive oil, dried parsley, and granulated garlic. Microwave for about 30 seconds until the butter is melted. Stir to combine.
• Assemble Bruschetta – Place the toasted baguette slices on a serving platter. Spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of the chilled shrimp mixture onto each slice. Serve immediately while the bread is still warm.

Equipment

• chef’s knife
• cutting board
• mixing bowls
• measuring cups and spoons
• baking sheet

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 220kcal
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 350mg
• Potassium: 200mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Vitamin A: 10IU
• Vitamin C: 15mg
• Calcium: 10mg
• Iron: 8mg

FAQ-Mediterranean Shrimp Bruschetta

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before chopping and using them in the recipe.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Substitute the baguette with gluten-free bread or crackers. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I prepare the bruschetta ahead of time?

It’s best to prepare the shrimp mixture and lemon dressing in advance but assemble the bruschetta just before serving to keep the baguette crispy.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

Goat cheese or a dairy-free cheese alternative can be used. For a dairy-free option, simply omit the cheese.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Use tofu or a plant-based protein instead of shrimp, replace the honey with agave or maple syrup, and omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute.