Smoked salmon crostini are little bites of joy! Picture crispy bread topped with creamy cheese and delicious smoked salmon. They’re easy to make and perfect for sharing!
These crostini make any gathering feel fancy. I love serving them at parties, and leftovers? Nope, there are never any! Who can resist such tasty treats? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A fresh baguette gives the perfect crunchy base for the crostini. If you can’t find one, a sourdough or ciabatta would also work great. Slice them into similar thickness for even toasting!
Cream Cheese: I love using plain cream cheese for its smooth texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese. It keeps the creaminess without the calories!
Smoked Salmon: This ingredient shines here! If salmon isn’t your thing, consider using smoked trout for a similar taste. You could also substitute with a veggie spread like avocado for a different take.
Herbs: Fresh dill is a classic with smoked salmon, but chives or even parsley work too. If herbs are a no-go for you, a sprinkle of lemon zest instead can brighten up the flavors!
Capers: They add a nice salty bite, but they are totally optional! If you want to replace them, try using pickled shallots or olives for a different flavor touch.
How Do I Toast the Bread Perfectly?
Toasting the bread is one of the most important steps to achieve that crunchy base. Here’s the trick:
- Preheat your oven, so it’s nice and hot. This helps get the bread crispy.
- Arrange your bread on a baking sheet, giving them space to toast evenly.
- Brush each slice lightly with olive oil. This adds flavor and promotes crispiness!
- Watch them closely while they toast for about 5-7 minutes, until they’re golden brown. It’s easy to go from golden to burnt, so start checking early.
Let them cool a bit before topping; this way, the bread stays crunchy and supports all those yummy toppings!
Smoked Salmon Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 8 oz smoked salmon slices
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh dill sprigs, for garnish
- 2 tablespoons capers (optional)
- 1 teaspoon everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (optional)
- Olive oil, for brushing
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful appetizer takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus a few minutes for toasting the bread. With simple steps and quick assembly, you’ll have a delicious treat ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is important for toasting the baguette slices perfectly!
2. Prepare the Baguette:
Arrange the sliced baguette pieces on a baking sheet. Lightly brush each slice with olive oil—this helps them become golden and crispy when baked.
3. Toast the Bread:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and toast the bread for about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, and take them out once they are golden and crispy. Let them cool slightly before adding toppings.
4. Spread the Cream Cheese:
Take the softened cream cheese and spread a generous layer over each toasted baguette slice. Make sure to cover the entire surface for maximum flavor!
5. Add the Smoked Salmon:
Fold the smoked salmon slices and place them on top of the cream cheese. You can add as much salmon as you like—layering is fun!
6. Garnish with Onion:
Top the salmon with a few slivers of thinly sliced red onion. The onion adds a lovely crunch and sharp flavor that balances the richness of the dish.
7. Season the Crostini:
Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds, along with freshly ground black pepper, on top of the crostini for added flavor.
8. Add Fresh Herbs:
Garnish each crostini with a small sprig of fresh dill. If desired, sprinkle on some chopped chives and capers for an extra touch of deliciousness!
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Arrange all your beautiful crostini on a serving platter. Serve them immediately and watch them disappear—everyone will love this tasty treat!
These smoked salmon crostini are simple yet so impressive, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the wonderful mix of flavors and the smiles they bring!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While a baguette is traditional, you can use any bread you prefer. Sourdough or ciabatta can also work wonderfully. Just make sure to slice them thick enough for a good crunch!
How Should I Store Leftover Crostini?
If you have any leftovers, store the assembled crostini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. However, the bread may become soggy after a while, so it’s best to keep the toppings and bread separate until you’re ready to eat!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the toasted bread and cream cheese topping in advance. Just assemble them right before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Dill?
No worries! If you can’t find fresh dill, you can use dried dill instead or substitute it with other herbs like chives or parsley for added flavor. A little lemon zest can also brighten the dish!
