Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Smoked Salmon Crostini is the ideal appetizer because it’s quick, simple, and packed with flavor. The crispy crostini provides the perfect base, while the smoked salmon adds a delightful savory, smoky taste. The cream cheese or herbed spread adds a creamy texture that complements the fish perfectly, and fresh herbs or toppings like capers and red onion give it a burst of freshness. It’s a refined dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
-
1 baguette or French bread, sliced into 1/4-inch thick slices
-
1 tablespoon olive oil
-
8 oz cream cheese (or goat cheese or mascarpone for a twist)
-
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
-
1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for extra flavor)
-
1 tablespoon fresh dill (or chives), chopped
-
4 oz smoked salmon, sliced
-
Capers (optional, for garnish)
-
Red onion slices (optional, for garnish)
-
Fresh dill or chives (optional, for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
1. Prepare the crostini:
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
Arrange the sliced baguette or French bread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
-
Brush each slice lightly with olive oil on both sides.
-
Toast the bread in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until golden and crispy. You can flip the slices halfway through for even toasting. Once done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the spread:
-
In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese (or your choice of spread), lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped dill. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
-
Taste and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt or pepper if desired.
3. Assemble the crostini:
-
Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture on each toasted crostini.
-
Top with a slice of smoked salmon, folding it slightly to fit the size of the crostini.
4. Garnish:
-
Garnish the crostini with capers, a few thin slices of red onion, and extra fresh dill or chives. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top adds a refreshing touch.
5. Serve:
-
Arrange the smoked salmon crostini on a platter and serve immediately as an appetizer or snack. These are best enjoyed fresh, with the contrast of crispy crostini and creamy toppings.
Servings and Timing
-
Servings: 12-15 crostinis (depending on the size of the baguette)
-
Prep Time: 10 minutes
-
Cook Time: 10 minutes
-
Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
-
Add avocado: For a creamy and rich twist, top each crostini with a few slices of avocado before adding the smoked salmon.
-
Use a flavored cream cheese: Try using flavored cream cheese, such as chive or garlic, for extra depth of flavor.
-
Try different herbs: Instead of dill, you can use fresh basil, tarragon, or parsley to add a different herbal note to the spread.
-
Cucumber slices: For added freshness and crunch, top with thin slices of cucumber along with the smoked salmon.
-
Cheese variation: Swap the cream cheese for a spreadable goat cheese or mascarpone for a creamier texture and a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
Crostini are best served immediately after being assembled. However, you can store leftover crostini (without the smoked salmon) in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, top them with smoked salmon and fresh garnishes.
If you have extra smoked salmon crostinis, keep them in the fridge for up to 2 hours, but be aware that they will lose their crunch the longer they sit. It’s best to enjoy them fresh!
FAQs
Can I use store-bought crostini?
Yes! If you don’t have the time to make your own crostini, you can use store-bought ones. Just be sure to toast them briefly in the oven to get them nice and crispy.
Can I use other types of smoked fish?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of smoked salmon, you can use smoked trout, mackerel, or even smoked whitefish as an alternative.
Can I make these crostini ahead of time?
You can prepare the crostini and the cream cheese spread ahead of time, and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble the crostini with the smoked salmon and garnishes just before serving for the best texture and freshness.
Can I make these crostinis gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free bread or crackers to make these crostinis gluten-free, and follow the rest of the recipe as directed.
How can I make these crostinis spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, you can drizzle a bit of hot sauce or add finely chopped jalapeños to the cream cheese spread for an extra kick.
Conclusion
Smoked Salmon Crostini is a sophisticated and easy-to-make appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests. With crispy crostini, creamy spread, and flavorful smoked salmon, these crostinis are perfect for any occasion—from casual gatherings to elegant dinner parties. Customize them with your favorite toppings or herbs, and enjoy the delicious combination of textures and flavors in every bite!
Smoked Salmon Crostini
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 crostinis
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Toasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Smoked Salmon Crostini is a simple yet elegant appetizer, combining crispy crostini, creamy spread, and savory smoked salmon. Topped with fresh herbs, capers, and a squeeze of lemon, it’s a delicious bite that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual get-together, these crostinis are sure to impress your guests!
Ingredients
-
1 baguette or French bread, sliced into 1/4-inch thick slices
-
1 tablespoon olive oil
-
8 oz cream cheese (or goat cheese or mascarpone for a twist)
-
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
-
1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
-
1 tablespoon fresh dill (or chives), chopped
-
4 oz smoked salmon, sliced
-
Capers (optional, for garnish)
-
Red onion slices (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh dill or chives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
-
Prepare the crostini: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the sliced baguette or French bread on a baking sheet in a single layer. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil on both sides. Toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until golden and crispy. Flip halfway for even toasting. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
-
Prepare the spread: In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese (or your choice of spread), lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped dill. Mix until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt or pepper.
-
Assemble the crostini: Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture on each toasted crostini. Top with a slice of smoked salmon, folding it to fit the size of the crostini.
-
Garnish: Garnish with capers, thin slices of red onion, and extra fresh dill or chives. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a refreshing touch.
-
Serve: Arrange the crostini on a platter and serve immediately as an appetizer or snack. Enjoy the crispy, creamy, and flavorful goodness!
Notes
Variations: Add avocado slices for a creamy twist, or try different herbs like basil, tarragon, or parsley for unique flavor combinations.Cheese options: Swap the cream cheese for spreadable goat cheese or mascarpone for a creamier texture and different flavor.Spicy option: Add a drizzle of hot sauce or finely chopped jalapeños to the cream cheese spread for an extra kick.
