Southern Pimento Cheese & Shrimp Crostini
Recipe: #23191
March 21, 2016
Categories: Snacks, Shrimp, Cheese, Appetizers, Southern, 5 Ingredients Or Less, Baby Shower, Game/Sports Day, July 4th, Labor Day, New Years, No Eggs, Olives, Spicy, more
"One of my favorite, quick and easy appetizers; and, only 5 ingredients (I don't count the olive oil). Great for a party/game night, or entertaining. They are best served hot; but, also room temp is fine. And, they take only 5 minutes to make. I love to toast the bread ahead of time; prep the shrimp; and, make the skewers - that way, it only takes a couple of minutes if that to melt the cheese; and, cook the shrimp. This recipe usually makes around 14 or so pieces; obviously it can vary; but, this normally how many I end up with. They look really fancy; but, also really easy."
Original is 5 servings
Ingredients
-
-
- Garnish (optional)
-
Nutritional
- Serving Size: 1 (283.8 g)
- Calories 624.6
- Total Fat - 28.3 g
- Saturated Fat - 12.6 g
- Cholesterol - 194.6 mg
- Sodium - 1889.9 mg
- Total Carbohydrate - 51.4 g
- Dietary Fiber - 2.8 g
- Sugars - 5.4 g
- Protein - 39.7 g
- Calcium - 779.6 mg
- Iron - 4.3 mg
- Vitamin C - 1.1 mg
- Thiamin - 0.6 mg
Step by Step Method
Step 1
Baguette ... I used a thin Italian baguette for this; and, cut in into 12-14 slices (of course, each piece of piece of bread can be a bit different). Then, lightly brush or spray each baguette slice with a little olive oil (on both sides). I love to use an atomizer for this. They are inexpensive; yet, you get a very thin spray of oil on each slice which is ideal. You can also brush the olive oil on; or, use a non-stick spray, or store bought olive oil spray. Then, toast each side until golden brown (1-2 minutes per side). I actually like to use the broiler for this. The crostini can easily be made ahead of time. Once cooled; store them in a ziploc bag until ready to use.
Step 2
Pimento Cheese ... Now, you can make your own; or, buy a good quality blend. A couple of local delis make one that is just as good as I can make; and, for something quick, this is perfect. Remember ... this is supposed to be an quick and easy appetizer. But, whether you buy it - or make it; use your favorite.
Step 3
Skewers ... I also prep these ahead too. One (1) toothpick, and 1 green olive. Just stick the olive on the end, and set to the side. Just keep them in a ziplock bag or container, until ready to serve.
Step 4
Shrimp ... First - make sure to let the shrimp set on the counter to take the chill off (10-15 minutes is all). Never cook with COLD seafood. Pat the shrimp dry; then, season the shrimp on both sides with the seasoning. Shrimp are sold by the pound; and the "U" in front of the # just means the number of shrimp in the pound. U12-15 just means, 12-15 shrimp per lb. The smaller the number, the bigger the shrimp.
Step 5
Bring a non-stick saute pan up to medium high to high heat; and, add add a little olive oil; or non stick spray - a very light coating is all that is needed.. Add the shrimp; and, saute a couple of minutes, until you get a nice sear or char on the first side - then flip. They don't take long; so keep an eye on them - maybe another minute or two at the most. Once they turn pink and begin to curl ... they are done. Remove from the heat.
Step 6
Baguettes ... As the shrimp cook; toast the baguettes on the same pan you toasted them on. Spread each baguette slice with a spoon of the pimento cheese; broil a minute or two - just until the cheese starts to melt and gets bubbly. That's it.
Step 7
Finish ... Place 1 shrimp on each cheesy baguette slice, and stick the olive toothpick right through the center to secure the shrimp. I like to garnish with a few drops of hot sauce.
Step 8
Serve and ENJOY! ... A simple appetizer; but, absolutely delicious. These are really good when watching a game, playoffs, etc. They are just so quick and easy to make; and, everyone devours them. Nothing fancy - nothing special; just a good easy and delicious appetizer. Personally ... I like a couple of dashes of hot sauce - not necessary; but, I like it; and, it is always on the table.
Tips
No special items needed.
Editorial Notes
The ingredient tips, suggestions, variations, facts, questions and answers below are not edits to the original author's recipe. They are not meant to imply any change would improve the recipe. They're offered for convenience, alternative ideas, and points of interest. If you have any comments about them, please post in the Help & Ideas forum.
- When choosing the baguette, try to find a thin Italian baguette for the best results.
- When selecting the shrimp, look for U12-15 extra large/jumbo shrimp for optimal flavor.
- Substitute the pimento cheese for a vegan cheese alternative. This substitution will benefit those who are vegan or looking for a more plant-based option. It will still provide the same cheesy flavor and creamy texture.
- Substitute the shrimp for a plant-based protein, such as tofu. This substitution will benefit those who are vegan or looking for a more plant-based option. It will still provide a similar texture and flavor, while also adding a boost of protein.
Spicy Buffalo Shrimp Crostini Replace the Cajun seasoning with a spicy buffalo sauce. Omit the pimento cheese and instead top each baguette slice with a teaspoon of the spicy buffalo sauce. Saute the shrimp in a little olive oil and hot sauce until cooked. Top each baguette slice with a shrimp and garnish with a few drops of hot sauce.
Cajun Corn and Potato Salad: This simple side dish is the perfect accompaniment to the Southern Pimento Cheese & Shrimp Crostini. It is full of flavor with a hint of spice and sweetness, and the potatoes and corn provide a nice crunch. It is also easy to make and can be served either hot or cold.
Southern Fried Okra: This classic Southern side dish is the perfect complement to the Cajun Corn and Potato Salad. Fried okra is lightly battered and fried to a golden crisp, making it a crunchy and flavorful addition to the meal. The okra provides a nice contrast to the creamy pimento cheese and the sweetness of the corn and potatoes.
FAQ
Q: How many pieces does this recipe usually make?
A: This recipe usually makes around 14 or so pieces. The exact number can vary depending on the size of the bread and shrimp used.
Q: What type of bread should I use for this recipe?
A: Any type of sandwich bread or wrap can be used for this recipe. However, for best results, a thicker-style wrap or focaccia bread is recommended.
0 Reviews
You'll Also Love
Fun facts:
The pimento cheese spread used in this recipe is a classic Southern dish, often referred to as the "caviar of the South". It was popularized by the first female president of the United States, President Jimmy Carter's wife, Rosalynn Carter.
This recipe is inspired by the classic New Orleans dish, Shrimp Remoulade. It was made famous by celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.