These smoked salmon crostini are little crunchy bites topped with creamy cheese and delicious smoked salmon. Perfect for a party or just a fancy snack!
The best part? They are super easy to make! I love to whip these up when friends come over, and they always impress. So tasty and elegant! 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A classic choice for crostini, but you can use any bread like ciabatta or even gluten-free options. Just aim for a bread that will toast up crunchy!
Cream Cheese: This is the base of your spread. If you’re looking for healthier options, try low-fat cream cheese or cottage cheese. For a dairy-free version, use cashew cheese or a vegan cream cheese alternative.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Both add creaminess! If you skip these, you can still have a great spread. I often add a touch of dill for flavor.
Dill: Fresh dill is fantastic, but if you don’t have any, parsley or chives can work too. Dried dill can also be substituted, but use less as it’s stronger.
Smoked Salmon: The star of the dish! If you want a twist, try using smoked mackerel or trout. For a vegetarian option, consider using marinated tofu or avocado.
How Do I Ensure My Crostini Are Perfectly Crunchy?
Getting the right crunch in your crostini is key! It starts with slicing the baguette correctly. Cutting it at a diagonal helps increase surface area for toasting.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for toasting without burning.
- Spread the baguette slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Keep them apart to allow even cooking.
- Bake for about 8-10 minutes, keeping an eye on them to prevent over-browning.
- Let them cool for a few minutes to maintain their crispness before adding toppings.
Perfectly toasted crostini will hold up beautifully against the cream cheese and salmon without getting soggy. Enjoy serving these delightful bites!
How to Make Smoked Salmon Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 baguette, sliced diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for creamier spread)
- 2 tsp fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 6 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, very thinly sliced or shaved
- Everything bagel seasoning or cracked black pepper, for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes in total, including about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to toast the bread. It’s a quick and easy appetizer or snack that your guests will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Toast the Bread:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for toasting the bread to a nice, crispy texture. Lay the baguette slices on a baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overlapping. Place them in the oven for about 8–10 minutes or until they are golden and crispy. Once done, let them cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Creamy Spread:
While the bread is toasting, grab a mixing bowl. Combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream (if you are using it), chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Feel free to taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
3. Assemble the Crostini:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Take your toasted baguette slices and generously spread the cream cheese mixture on each piece, making sure to cover them well. This is where the creamy base allows the delicious toppings to shine!
4. Add the Smoked Salmon:
Next, top each cream cheese-covered slice with a piece of thinly sliced smoked salmon. You can place it as is or fold it for a bit of flair. The smoky flavor of the salmon pairs beautifully with the creamy mixture!
5. Garnish and Add Finishing Touches:
For an extra pop of flavor, add a few thin slices of red onion on top of the salmon. Finish each crostini with a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning or cracked black pepper for an added crunch and taste. Don’t forget to place a small sprig of dill for that lovely garnish.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Arrange the completed crostini on a serving platter and serve immediately while they are fresh and crispy. They make for a delightful appetizer or snack that’s sure to impress!
Enjoy these elegant and easy-to-make smoked salmon crostini as a delicious refreshment at any gathering!
Can I Make the Cream Cheese Mixture in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese mixture up to a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply spread it on the toasted baguette slices and add the toppings!
How Should I Store Leftover Crostini?
If you have any leftover assembled crostini, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Keep in mind that the bread may become a bit soggy, so it’s best to toast and assemble just what you need to enjoy fresh flavors.
Can I Use Other Types of Bread?
Yes, you can! While a baguette is traditional, you can use any crusty bread like ciabatta, sourdough, or even gluten-free options. Just make sure to slice them thickly enough for toasting!
What Can I Substitute for Smoked Salmon?
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use smoked mackerel or trout for a similar flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, consider using marinated tofu or avocado slices, which are also delicious!