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Toasted Ciabatta Seafood with Pesto Sauce

Toasted Ciabatta Seafood with Pesto Sauce Recipe

Toasted Ciabatta Seafood with Pesto Sauce is a delightful open-faced sandwich or appetizer, that combines crispy ciabatta, tender seafood, and fragrant pesto. It’s perfect for a light meal or an impressive starter!

Ingredients:

  • 1 large ciabatta loaf, sliced in half lengthwise or into individual pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Shrimps, peeled and deveined
  • Mussels
  • Calamari
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional, for garnish)
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Ciabatta:
    • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
    • Brush the cut sides of the ciabatta with olive oil. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for about 5-7 minutes, until they are lightly toasted.
  2. Cook the Seafood:
    • In a skillet over medium-high heat, warm 1 tbsp of olive oil.
    • Add the shrimp, mussels, and calamari  (or other seafood) to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, and cook, for about 3-4 minutes per side.
    • Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Assemble the Ciabatta:
    • Spread a generous layer of pesto sauce over each toasted ciabatta piece.
    • Arrange the cooked seafood evenly on top of the pesto-covered ciabatta. Optionally, scatter cherry tomato halves over the seafood.
  4. Bake (Optional):
    • For a warm, melted texture, place the ciabatta back in the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes. You can also sprinkle a bit of Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
  5. Garnish and Serve:
    • Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.
Monchanoke