Go Back
–+ servings
Shrimp crostini appetizer with seasoned shrimp, piped citrus cream cheese, and fresh cilantro

Citrus Shrimp Crostini with Tropical Fruit Caviar

Elegant citrus shrimp crostini topped with creamy lime-infused cream cheese and vibrant tropical fruit caviar. A refined appetizer that looks impressive, tastes fresh and balanced, and is perfect for entertaining.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 5 crostini
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Shrimp Crostini
  • 10 large shrimp peeled, deveined, tails removed
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 1/4 tsp lime pepper or lemon pepper
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 5 baguette slices toasted
Citrus Cream Cheese
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
  • Zest from 1 lime
  • Juice from 1/2 lime
Tropical Fruit Caviar
  • 1/2 cup mango or mango-passionfruit juice
  • 1/2 tsp agar agar
  • 1/4 cup canola oil ice cold
Garnish
  • Fresh cilantro leaves
  • Red pepper flakes optional

Method
 

Make the Tropical Fruit Caviar
  1. Combine the mango (or mango-passionfruit) juice and agar agar in a small saucepan.
  2. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, and simmer for 1 minute until fully dissolved.
  3. Remove from heat and let cool until the mixture is just beginning to thicken but is still pourable.
  4. Using a syringe or dropper, slowly drip the juice mixture into very cold canola oil. The drops will instantly form small pearls.
  5. Strain the caviar and rinse gently under cold water to remove excess oil. Set aside.
Cook the Shrimp
  1. Season the shrimp with lime pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Cook shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side, until opaque and just cooked through. Do not overcook. Remove from heat and set aside.
Make the Citrus Cream Cheese
  1. In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with lime zest and lime juice until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Crostini
  1. Spread a thin layer of citrus cream cheese onto each toasted baguette slice.
  2. Divide the remaining cream cheese evenly among the crostini, piping or spooning it on.
  3. Top each crostini with two shrimp.
  4. Spoon tropical fruit caviar over the shrimp.
  5. Garnish with a cilantro leaf and a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes, if desired.
  6. Serve immediately or shortly after assembling.

Notes

  • Use large shrimp for the best presentation and balance.
  • Shrimp, cream cheese, and fruit caviar can all be prepared ahead and assembled just before serving.
  • For smoother piping, allow cream cheese to fully soften or mix in 1–2 tablespoons of heavy cream.
  • Optional for stronger flavor: reduce 1 cup of juice over low heat until reduced by half, then add agar agar and proceed as above.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!