This tasty smoked salmon on crostini is a perfect appetizer! The crispy bread topped with creamy cheese and flavorful salmon makes for a delightful bite.
Whenever I serve these, they disappear in a flash! I love to add a squeeze of lemon on top for that extra zing. Who can resist such a snack? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A crusty baguette is perfect for crostini. If you can’t find one, try using Italian or French bread. You can also use gluten-free bread for a tasty alternative.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a wonderful flavor when brushing the baguette. If you’re out, avocado oil or melted butter works well too!
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese gives a creamy base. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese. I often mix in a bit of sour cream for extra tang.
Fresh Dill: Dill adds a refreshing flavor. If you don’t have it, substitute with chives or parsley, or even use dried dill in a pinch. I love experimenting with fresh herbs!
Smoked Salmon: The star of this dish! If you’re not a fan of smoked salmon, try using cooked shrimp or canned tuna for a different taste.
How Do You Perfectly Toast Crostini?
Toasting the baguette slices is key to making great crostini. It’s all about achieving that crunchy texture while keeping them flavorful. Here’s how to nail it:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the ideal temp for even toasting.
- Brush both sides of each baguette slice with olive oil. Don’t skimp; this adds flavor and helps it crisp up.
- Place the slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, but keep an eye on them! They should be golden brown.
- Once they’re out, let them cool for a few minutes. This helps them maintain that crispy texture.
How to Make Smoked Salmon on Crostini?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crostini:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2 inch pieces
- 1/4 cup olive oil
For the Topping:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 8 oz smoked salmon
- 1 tablespoon capers, drained
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and about 10-12 minutes for baking the crostini. In total, you’ll need around 30 minutes to have these delicious smoked salmon crostinis ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Crostini:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, arrange the sliced baguette on a baking sheet. Brush both sides of each slice lightly with olive oil. This helps them get nice and crispy!
2. Bake Until Crispy:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake the baguette slices for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are crisp and golden brown. Once they are ready, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and the chopped dill. Mix them together until smooth and well combined. This will be the delicious base for your toppings!
4. Assemble the Crostini:
Next, spread a generous layer of your dill cream cheese mixture onto each toasted crostini. Top each one with 2-3 slices of cucumber. Then, layer on a piece of smoked salmon over the cucumber slices.
5. Finish with Flavor:
Sprinkle the capers over the smoked salmon and add a pinch of freshly ground black pepper for a little kick. If you like, you can garnish with extra fresh dill for a pop of color!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious smoked salmon crostini immediately, with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over if desired. Enjoy your tasty appetizer!
Can I Use a Different Type of Bread for Crostini?
Absolutely! While a baguette is traditional, you can use ciabatta, sourdough, or any crusty bread you prefer. Just slice it to about 1/2 inch thick and follow the same baking instructions for a perfect crispy base.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, try using a plant-based cream cheese alternative. There are many great options available that mimic the texture and taste well. Just make sure to check that your smoked salmon is also dairy-free if that’s a concern!
How to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, keep the cream cheese mixture separate from the crostini. Store the crostini in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The cream cheese and smoked salmon can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, simply reassemble and enjoy!
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the cream cheese mixture and slice your baguette a few hours in advance. Just store the cream cheese in the fridge and cover the crostini with a kitchen towel to keep them fresh. Assembly is best done right before serving for optimal crispness!
