Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Toast for Bold Flavor Lovers
Spicy shrimp and avocado toast combines perfectly seasoned shrimp with creamy avocado on crispy bread for a satisfying appetizer that packs serious flavor.
You’ll love how quickly this comes together – the shrimp cook in just 4 minutes, and the bold spices create a restaurant-worthy dish at home. It’s ideal for entertaining or when you want something more exciting than regular avocado toast.
Why Cajun Seasoning Makes All the Difference
Cajun seasoning brings the heat and complexity that makes this dish memorable. The blend typically contains paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and oregano, which create layers of flavor beyond just spice.
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can make your own by mixing 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne, and 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano. Store-bought works great too – Old Bay is a solid substitute that’s slightly milder.
Highly Recommended
Getting Shrimp Texture Right
The key to tender shrimp is cooking them quickly over medium-high heat. They’re done when they turn pink and curl into a C-shape – this takes about 2 minutes per side.
Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and tough, so watch them closely. If your shrimp are frozen, thaw them completely and pat dry with paper towels before seasoning. Excess moisture will cause them to steam instead of getting that nice sear.
Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Toast for Bold Flavor Lovers
Ingredients
Garnish
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Toaster or toaster oven
- Medium mixing bowl
- Fork for mashing
Instructions
- Season shrimp: Pat shrimp completely dry with paper towels and toss with Cajun seasoning in a bowl until evenly coated. Let sit for 5 minutes while preparing other ingredients.
- Toast bread: Toast bread slices until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side in toaster or toaster oven.
- Prepare avocado mixture: Cut avocados in half, remove pits, and scoop flesh into a bowl. Add lime juice, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Mash with a fork until mostly smooth but still slightly chunky.
- Start cooking shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes without moving them.
- Finish cooking shrimp: Flip shrimp and cook for 2-3 more minutes until they’re pink, opaque throughout, and curled into a C-shape. Remove from heat immediately.
- Assemble toast: Spread avocado mixture evenly on toasted bread slices. Top each with 4-5 shrimp, then sprinkle with diced red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño slices. Serve immediately with hot sauce on the side.
Nutrition Facts
Per Serving (1 piece of toast)
