Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Brush each slice lightly with 2 tbs extra-virgin olive oil. Toast in the oven for 6–8 minutes, turning once, until golden and crisp. Remove from oven and while still warm, rub the cut side of the halved garlic clove across each toast to impart a subtle garlic note. Set aside to cool slightly.

Make herbed goat cheese

In a small bowl, combine 6 oz soft goat cheese, 2 tbs snipped chives, 1 tbs chopped parsley, 1 tsp lemon zest, 1 tsp honey, 1 tsp sea salt, and 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Mix with a fork until smooth and evenly distributed. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or a splash more lemon juice if desired.

Assemble crostini

Spread about 1 to 1 1/2 tbs of the herbed goat cheese onto each toasted baguette slice. Arrange on a serving platter and, if desired, finish with a tiny drizzle of honey and a small snip of chive for garnish. Serve immediately so the toasts remain crisp.

Citrus Shrimp Lettuce Cups

Season and cook shrimp

Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss 12 shrimp with 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1/4 tsp ground black pepper, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, and 1 tbs olive oil until evenly coated. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the shrimp in a single layer and cook 1.5–2 minutes per side, until pink and just cooked through. Remove from heat and let cool slightly; chop larger shrimp into bite-size pieces if desired.

Make citrus-shrimp filling

In a medium bowl combine the cooked shrimp, 1 chopped segmented orange, 1/4 cup finely diced red bell pepper, 2 tsp very finely diced red onion, and 2 tbs chopped cilantro. In a small bowl whisk together 2 tsp mayonnaise, 2 tsp fresh lime juice, 1/2 tsp honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss the dressing with the shrimp mixture until evenly coated. Taste and adjust acidity or seasoning as needed. If using, add a few thin slices of jalapeño for heat.

Assemble lettuce cups

Lay out 12 chilled lettuce leaves. Spoon roughly 1 to 1 1/2 tbs of the citrus shrimp mixture into each leaf, arranging the filling so it sits neatly in the cup. Garnish each with a small cilantro leaf or a tiny sprinkle of extra orange zest for brightness. Serve immediately so the lettuce remains crisp.