Shrimp ceviche toasts

Instructions for Making Shrimp Ceviche Toasts

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp for Ceviche

Start by prepping the shrimp. If you haven’t already done so, peel and devein the shrimp. Then, chop the shrimp into small, bite-sized pieces. Place the chopped shrimp in a medium bowl.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

Pour the fresh lime juice and lemon juice over the shrimp. The citrus juice will begin to “cook” the shrimp, turning it from translucent to opaque. Stir the shrimp and juices gently, making sure all the shrimp pieces are submerged in the citrus juice. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until the shrimp is fully “cooked” (i.e., no longer translucent and firm).

Note: The marinating time can be longer if you prefer a more intense citrus flavor, but the shrimp should be ready to serve after about 30 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

While the shrimp is marinating, prepare the other ingredients for the ceviche. Finely chop the red onion, cucumber, tomato, and jalapeño (if using). Roughly chop the fresh cilantro.

Once the shrimp is ready, drain off any excess liquid from the marinade. Add the prepared vegetables and cilantro to the shrimp, stirring gently to combine. Taste the ceviche mixture and season with salt and pepper. For a little more zest, you can add an extra squeeze of lime or lemon juice.

Step 4: Prepare the Toasts

While the ceviche marinates, it’s time to make the toasts. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick slices. Lay the slices of bread in a single layer on a baking sheet.

Brush each slice of bread with olive oil on both sides. You can also rub the bread with a cut garlic clove for added flavor. Place the baking sheet in the oven and toast the bread for about 10 minutes, or until the bread is golden and crispy. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Once the bread is toasted, remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool slightly.

Step 5: Assemble the Shrimp Ceviche Toasts

To assemble the toasts, spoon a generous amount of the shrimp ceviche mixture onto each piece of toasted bread. Be sure to include some of the liquid from the ceviche, as it will soak into the bread, adding extra flavor.

Garnish the toasts with additional fresh cilantro or a few extra slices of jalapeño for heat if desired.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Your shrimp ceviche toasts are now ready to be served! They are best enjoyed immediately while the bread is still crispy and the ceviche is fresh. These toasts make an excellent appetizer for parties, picnics, or casual dinners.

Tips for Perfect Shrimp Ceviche Toasts

1. Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will give the ceviche its best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly before using them.
2. Add Avocado: For an even creamier and richer flavor, add a few slices of ripe avocado to each toast before serving. The creaminess of the avocado balances the acidity of the ceviche.
3. Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder ceviche, leave out the jalapeño or reduce the amount of seeds you use. If you like a spicier kick, feel free to add more jalapeño or even some hot sauce.
4. Make it Ahead: You can prepare the ceviche a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Just wait to assemble the toasts until right before serving to keep the bread crisp.
5. Other Bread Options: If you don’t have a baguette, you can also use other types of bread, such as sourdough or a rustic country loaf. Just be sure to slice it thinly and toast it until crispy.

Why Shrimp Ceviche Toasts are So Delicious

Shrimp ceviche toasts are a perfect blend of fresh, tangy, and savory flavors. The shrimp, cooked in citrus juices, offers a delicate texture and a burst of freshness. The crisp vegetables and cilantro add crunch and herbaceous notes, while the toasty bread serves as the ideal base to hold all of the flavorful ingredients together. It’s the perfect balance of refreshing and rich, making these toasts irresistible.

Plus, they’re super versatile! You can serve them as an appetizer, or even as a light main dish. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, a summer gathering, or a dinner party, shrimp ceviche toasts are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

In Conclusion

Shrimp ceviche toasts are an easy and exciting way to enjoy shrimp in a refreshing and flavorful way. They’re quick to prepare, making them a perfect choice for when you need a light yet impressive appetizer. Whether for a special celebration or a simple weeknight meal, these toasts will bring a burst of freshness and fun to your table. Try this recipe today and delight in the vibrant flavors of shrimp ceviche on crispy toasted bread!