Shrimp Walnut Bruschetta Recipe with Cheesy Dip
Introduction
Bruschetta is a beloved Italian appetizer often adorned with tomatoes, basil, and olive oil, making it a fresh and vibrant treat. However, in this creative take, we add succulent shrimp, crunchy walnuts, and a flavorful cheesy dip to elevate this classic dish into something extraordinary. The combination of the creamy Del Monte Cheesy Dip with seared shrimp, walnuts, and a tangy touch of dill makes each bite absolutely irresistible. Perfect for any party or casual get-together, this Shrimp Walnut Bruschetta will impress your guests with its bold and delicious flavors.
Cuisine:
Italian Recipes
Course:
Appetizer
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
40 minutes
Total Time:
1 hour
Servings:
4-6
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shrimps | 250 grams, cleaned and deveined |
| Baguette | 1, cut into slices |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, finely chopped |
| Green Olives | 1/4 cup, chopped |
| Walnuts | 1/4 cup, roughly broken |
| Del Monte Cheesy Dip | 4 tablespoons |
| Dill Leaves | 3 sprigs, chopped |
| Salad Leaves | A handful (rocket or any other salad leaves) |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | As required |
| Butter (Salted) | As required |
| Salt | As needed |
| Black Pepper Powder | As needed |
| Red Chili Flakes | As needed |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 kcal |
| Protein | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
| Cholesterol | 60mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baguette
Start by preheating a pan or your oven. If using a pan, lightly brush each side of the baguette slices with extra virgin olive oil. Season the slices with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Place the slices in the hot pan and toast them on both sides until golden brown and crisp. Alternatively, you can toast them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes until crispy. Once done, set the toasted baguette slices aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon of salted butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté until it becomes golden and aromatic. Add the shrimp to the pan and cook on high heat for about 1 minute, turning the shrimp occasionally. Continue to cook for an additional 5-6 minutes until the shrimp is seared and cooked through. Season with salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of red chili flakes to taste. Remove the shrimp from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Shrimp Walnut Mayo Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, broken walnuts, chopped dill leaves, and green olives. Add the Del Monte Cheesy Dip and mix everything together until well combined. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. You can also add a little lemon zest for extra freshness if desired.
Step 4: Assemble the Bruschetta
Now, it’s time to assemble the bruschetta! Take the toasted baguette slices and spread a generous amount of Del Monte Cheesy Dip on one side of each slice. Top with the shrimp-walnut mixture, spreading it evenly over the dip.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the prepared Shrimp Walnut Bruschettas on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh salad leaves such as rocket or any leafy greens of your choice. These bruschettas make for an excellent appetizer and are sure to be a hit at any party or gathering.
Serve immediately and watch your guests savor every delicious bite of this irresistible, cheesy, and savory treat.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Walnut Bruschetta
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Choosing the Shrimp: Opt for fresh, large shrimp that are cleaned and deveined for convenience. You can also use frozen shrimp, but make sure they are thawed and drained of excess water before cooking.
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Bread Variations: While a baguette works wonderfully for bruschetta, you can experiment with other types of bread like ciabatta or sourdough for different textures and flavors.
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Customize the Toppings: Feel free to experiment with other ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
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Make it Ahead: The shrimp walnut mayo mixture can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Conclusion
This Shrimp Walnut Bruschetta with Cheesy Dip is an inventive twist on the classic Italian appetizer. With its combination of succulent shrimp, crunchy walnuts, and creamy Del Monte Cheesy Dip, it delivers a delightful mix of textures and flavors in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a casual meal, this bruschetta is sure to become a crowd favorite. So, get ready to serve up this irresistible treat and watch your guests come back for more!
