Smoked Salmon Crostini

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smoked Salmon Crostini are an effortless, sophisticated appetizer that is both visually stunning and mouthwateringly tasty. The creamy cheese and fresh dill mixture pairs perfectly with the salty smoked salmon and crispy bread. Whether you’re serving them as a snack at a holiday gathering or as part of a brunch spread, these crostini are bound to be a hit. Quick to prepare, these crostini offer a delightful balance of textures and flavors, all in one perfect bite.

Ingredients

• 1-2 baguettes, enough to get about 30-35 ¼ inch slices (or use pre-sliced baguette)

• Olive oil spray

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened (not melted)

• 1 small lemon, juiced

• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

• 1 fresh garlic clove, crushed

• Salt, to taste

• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

• 8 oz cold smoked salmon

• For garnish:

  • Capers

  • Fresh dill

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the Crostini
   Cut the baguette into ¼-inch to ½-inch slices, yielding about 30-35 slices. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet.
   Spray both sides of the bread with a light coat of olive oil.
   Bake at 350°F for about 9 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the crostini are golden and crisp. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

3. Make the Cream Cheese Spread
   In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped dill, lemon juice, crushed garlic, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
   Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined.
   If desired, spoon the cream cheese mixture into a piping bag for easier serving.

4. Assemble the Crostini
   Once the crostini have cooled, arrange them on a serving platter.
   Place a slice of smoked salmon on top of each crostini.
   Pipe a small dollop of the cream cheese mixture on top of the salmon.

5. Garnish and Serve
   Garnish each crostini with a few capers and a sprig of fresh dill.
   Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 30 crostini

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the smoked salmon and top the crostini with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian alternative.

• Herb Swap: If you’re not a fan of dill, try swapping it out for chives or parsley for a different fresh flavor.

• Spicy Twist: Add a small amount of horseradish to the cream cheese mixture for a zesty kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: These crostini are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the crostini separately from the cream cheese and salmon. The crostini can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days, while the cream cheese and salmon can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: To refresh leftover crostini, place them back in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to crisp them up again. However, once topped with the cream cheese and salmon, they are best served fresh.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought smoked salmon?

Yes, pre-sliced smoked salmon works perfectly for this recipe. You can find it in most grocery stores, and it’s a great time-saver.

2. Can I prepare these ahead of time?

You can prep the cream cheese mixture and the crostini ahead of time. Just store the cream cheese mixture in the fridge and assemble the crostini right before serving.

3. What else can I top these crostini with?

While smoked salmon is the classic topping, you can also try using fresh crab meat, prosciutto, or a mixture of roasted vegetables for a different twist.

4. Can I make these without a piping bag?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a piping bag, simply spoon the cream cheese mixture onto the crostini or use a small spatula to spread it.

5. Can I use flavored cream cheese?

If you prefer, you can use flavored cream cheese, like garlic or herb cream cheese, to add even more flavor to these crostini.

6. Can I freeze these crostini?

It’s best not to freeze the fully assembled crostini, as the cream cheese and salmon may not hold up well. However, you can freeze the crostini (without toppings) and bake them fresh when ready to serve.

7. Can I add more toppings to these crostini?

Definitely! Try adding a little avocado, a slice of cucumber, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.

8. How do I keep the crostini from getting soggy?

Make sure the crostini are fully cooled before assembling, and store the cream cheese and salmon separately until just before serving to keep them crispy.

9. Can I use a different type of bread for the crostini?

You can use any type of crusty bread, such as a French baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough. Just be sure to slice it thinly for the best results.

10. Can I make these crostini gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free baguettes or any gluten-free bread to make these crostini gluten-free.

Conclusion

Smoked Salmon Crostini are the ultimate party appetizer that combines delicious flavors and beautiful presentation. Whether you’re hosting a special event or enjoying a casual brunch, these crostini are sure to elevate any occasion. With their crispy base, creamy spread, and rich smoked salmon, they’re a delightful snack that your guests will love!

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