Smoked Salmon Crostini is a delightful dish that brings together crispy bread, creamy cheese, and rich salmon. It’s perfect for gatherings, brunch, or a cozy snack at home. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also looks beautiful on any table. With fresh flavors and simple prep, you’ll be impressed with how quickly you can whip these up.

Why You Will Love This Crostini

This recipe is great for everyone. It’s quick to prepare, making it wonderful for busy days. The flavors are light and refreshing, perfect for any occasion. Plus, it uses everyday ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. You’ll love how impressive it looks when served, but it takes minimal effort to make!

How to Make Crostini

Making this smoked salmon crostini is quite simple. You start by toasting baguette slices until they’re crispy. Then, whip up a creamy cheese mixture, spread it on the bread, and top it with savory salmon and tasty garnishes. It all comes together nicely in just a few easy steps.

What You Need

1 baguette, sliced 1/2″ thick on a bias
Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Zest of 1/2 lemon
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (from half a lemon)
8 oz. cream cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill, plus more for serving
1/4 cup sliced chives
8 oz. smoked salmon
Whole grain mustard, for serving
Capers, for serving
1 small red onion, thinly sliced

Step-by-Step

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the baguette slices evenly on a baking sheet and drizzle them with extra-virgin olive oil to ensure they toast up crispy and flavorful.
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the bread slices for 8 to 10 minutes until the edges turn lightly golden and crisp. Remove and let them cool slightly.
In a medium bowl, zest half a lemon and add the juice until you have about one tablespoon. Add the cream cheese, chopped dill, and sliced chives. Using a handheld mixer on medium speed or a whisk, beat the mixture for about 2 minutes until it becomes fluffy and light.
Spread a generous layer of the lemon dill cream cheese mixture onto each toasted baguette slice. Top each with smoked salmon, then add a dollop of whole grain mustard. Garnish with capers, thinly sliced red onion, and a sprinkle of fresh dill for an extra burst of flavor and color.

How to Serve Crostini

This crostini is lovely as an appetizer or a light lunch. Pair it with a fresh salad or some crunchy veggies for a complete meal. You can also serve it on a platter for gatherings or a cozy family night in. For an extra touch, consider serving it with bubbly drinks or tea.

How to Store Crostini

To keep any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. You can assemble them fresh for each serving. If you have leftover cream cheese mixture, it also keeps well in the fridge for a few days. Just remember, the toasted bread may lose its crispness, so it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh.

Recipe Tips

Toast the bread just until golden to ensure it’s crispy.
Feel free to use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter option.
Fresh dill and chives add great flavor, but you can adjust based on your preference.
Don’t skip the lemon zest; it adds a fresh touch to the cream cheese.
Serve immediately for the best taste and presentation.

Variations & Swaps

Try using a different type of bread, like sourdough or rye, for varied flavors.
For a creamy twist, mix in some goat cheese or soft feta in the cheese spread.
If salmon isn’t your thing, swap it out for grilled vegetables or even fresh avocado for a veggie version.

FAQs

Can I make these crostini ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese mixture ahead and store it in the fridge. Toast the bread shortly before serving to keep it crispy. Assemble them just before serving for the best texture.

Can I freeze the crostini?
It’s best not to freeze the crostini once assembled, as the bread will become soggy. However, you can freeze the baguette slices before toasting and then toast them when you’re ready to serve.

How do I reheat leftovers?
If you have assembled crostini that you’d like to reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warmed through. However, for the freshest experience, it’s ideal to make them fresh each time.

What can I substitute for smoked salmon?
If you prefer, you can use thinly sliced turkey, chicken, or even roasted red peppers for a vegetarian option. Each substitution will create a unique flavor profile.

How do I avoid soggy bread?
Ensure that the baguette slices are properly toasted and allow them to cool slightly before adding the cream cheese mixture. Avoid adding any wet toppings until just before serving.