These Smoked Salmon Crostini are a fancy yet easy appetizer that impresses everyone. Crispy bread topped with creamy cheese and flavorful smoked salmon makes each bite special!
They’re perfect for parties or just a snack at home. I love to sprinkle a bit of dill or lemon zest on top for an extra pop of flavor. So simple, yet so classy! 🥂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: This is essential for the base of your crostini. If you can’t find a baguette, any crusty bread like ciabatta or sourdough works well. I recommend slicing it diagonally for nice presentation.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese gives a rich and creamy texture. You can substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option or even a vegan cream cheese if you’re dairy-free!
Smoked Salmon: The star of the dish! If you want a different flavor, try smoked trout or even cooked shrimp as alternatives. Just ensure they’re seasoned well!
Dill: Fresh dill adds a bright flavor. If you don’t have any, try using chives or parsley instead. I personally love the taste of dill here, but feel free to adjust to your liking.
How Do I Toast the Bread Perfectly?
Toasting the bread is key to creating the perfect crostini base. Follow these steps for crispy, golden slices:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot enough to properly toast the bread.
- Brush each baguette slice lightly with olive oil for flavor and a good crunch.
- Arrange the slices on a baking sheet in a single layer to ensure even toasting.
- Bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Let them cool slightly before adding toppings. That crunch is what makes each bite so enjoyable!
Smoked Salmon Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 baguette, sliced diagonally into 12 slices
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- 8 oz (225 g) smoked salmon, sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp capers (optional)
- Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh microgreens or dill sprigs, for garnish
- Olive oil, for brushing bread
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious appetizer takes about 15 minutes to prepare, with an additional few minutes for toasting the bread. In total, you’ll be ready to serve your crostini in about 20-25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Bread:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take your baguette and slice it diagonally into 12 pieces. Place the slices on a baking sheet and lightly brush both sides with olive oil to give them a nice golden color when toasted.
2. Toasting the Baguette:
Once your oven is hot, put the baking sheet in and toast the baguette slices for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they should turn crispy and golden. After they’re done, take them out and let them cool slightly. This step ensures a good crunch!
3. Making the Cream Cheese Spread:
In a small bowl, mix your softened cream cheese with lemon juice and optional chopped dill. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This spread adds a delightful flavor to your crostini.
4. Assembling the Crostini:
Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture over each toasted baguette slice, making sure to cover the bread nicely.
5. Adding the Smoked Salmon:
Top each slice with a folded piece of smoked salmon. Don’t be shy—make it a nice portion that will impress your guests!
6. Garnishing:
Now it’s time to make your crostini look beautiful. Add thin slices of red onion on top, sprinkle with capers if you like, and finish with a few cracks of fresh black pepper.
7. Final Touches:
For an elegant look, garnish each crostini with fresh microgreens or a small sprig of dill. This adds color and freshness to each bite!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange your stunning smoked salmon crostini on a serving platter. These are best enjoyed fresh, so serve immediately and watch your guests rave about them!
Enjoy these elegant smoked salmon crostini as a delightful appetizer or light snack!
Can I Use Different Bread for Crostini?
Absolutely! While a baguette is traditional, you can use any crusty bread like ciabatta or sourdough. Just make sure to slice it thinly for the best texture!
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the cream cheese mixture and toast the bread up to a day in advance. Store the cream cheese in an airtight container in the fridge. Assemble the crostini just before serving to keep the bread crispy!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Crostini?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. Keep the components separate if possible to avoid sogginess. The bread can lose its crispness, but you can quickly toast it again!
Can I Customize the Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite toppings, such as avocado slices, cucumbers, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese. Just keep the flavor profiles in mind for a delicious combination!
