When it comes to appetizers, nothing beats a dish that’s as easy to make as it is impressive to serve. Smoked salmon crostini is one of those recipes that strikes the perfect balance between elegance and simplicity.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, planning a dinner party, or just want to elevate a casual gathering, this recipe promises to delight your guests with every bite.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
The beauty of this smoked salmon crostini lies in its ability to bring together a few simple ingredients to create a dish that feels luxurious. Crispy baguette slices act as the perfect canvas for a creamy herb-infused spread, topped with cool, tender slices of smoked salmon.
A hint of lemon zest adds brightness, while fresh dill ties it all together with a touch of freshness. It’s the kind of appetizer that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen, but in reality, it’s incredibly quick and easy to assemble.
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This recipe is also incredibly versatile. It can be prepared in advance for stress-free entertaining, and it’s light enough to pair with a variety of meals or beverages.
Whether you’re serving mimosas, cocktails, or a classic glass of white wine, smoked salmon crostini complements them all beautifully.
Tips for Perfect Smoked Salmon Crostini
Here are a few simple tips to ensure your smoked salmon crostini turn out perfectly every time:
- Choose the right bread: A fresh baguette works best for this recipe. Its crisp exterior and soft interior create the ideal texture for crostini.
- Slice thinly and evenly: Diagonal slices not only look more elegant but also provide more surface area for the toppings.
- Use quality smoked salmon: Opt for cold-smoked salmon, as it’s tender, flavorful, and easy to layer on each slice.
- Don’t skimp on the herb cream cheese: This creamy layer adds richness and helps hold the toppings in place.
- Finish with a garnish: A sprinkle of dill and a touch of lemon zest add both flavor and a visually appealing touch.
Variations to Try
This recipe is easy to customize, making it perfect for accommodating dietary preferences or experimenting with new flavors. Here are a few ideas to mix things up:
- Make it gluten-free: Swap the baguette for your favorite gluten-free bread or crackers.
- Add more crunch: Thinly sliced cucumbers or radishes make excellent additions for a refreshing bite.
- Try a spicy kick: Add a dash of horseradish to the cream cheese for extra heat.
- Go vegetarian: Replace the smoked salmon with marinated roasted red peppers or thinly sliced avocado for a plant-based version.
A Stress-Free Option for Entertaining
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare ahead of time. You can toast the crostini and mix the herb cream cheese several hours in advance.
When it’s time to serve, simply assemble the crostini, garnish them, and enjoy. This makes it an ideal option for busy hosts who want to spend more time with their guests and less time in the kitchen.
Perfect for Every Occasion
Smoked salmon crostini is more than just an appetizer—it’s a recipe that fits any occasion. From casual gatherings to formal events, this dish delivers on flavor and presentation every time.
Its bright, fresh flavors and creamy texture make it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to earn rave reviews.
If you’re looking for an easy recipe that’s both elegant and delicious, give this smoked salmon crostini a try. It’s a classic appetizer that never goes out of style and will quickly become a go-to in your collection of favorite recipes.
Easy Smoked Salmon Crostini Recipe
Ingredients
For the Crostini:
- 1 16-ounce baguette
- Extra-virgin olive oil for brushing
- For the Herb Cream Cheese:
- 1 medium lemon zest and 1½ teaspoons juice reserved
- 6 ounces plain cream cheese room temperature
- 2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onions dark green parts or chives
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill plus more for garnish
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 small garlic clove pressed or grated
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
For Assembling:
- ½ English cucumber cut into 25 thin slices
- 8–10 ounces thinly sliced cold-smoked salmon
Instructions
- Prepare the Crostini: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Slice the baguette into 25 diagonal pieces and arrange them in a single layer on a baking tray. Lightly brush both sides of each slice with olive oil. Bake for about 5 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crisp while the centers remain soft. Allow them to cool to room temperature.
- Mix the Herb Cream Cheese: Zest the entire lemon and set the zest aside for later. Squeeze the lemon and measure out 1½ teaspoons of juice. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, green onions, dill, mayonnaise, garlic, salt, and reserved lemon juice. Mash the mixture with a fork until smooth and uniform.
- Assemble the Crostini: Spread a thin layer of the prepared herb cream cheese onto each toasted baguette slice. Layer a slice of cucumber and then a piece of smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the crostini with additional fresh dill and the reserved lemon zest for a finishing touch. Serve immediately, or cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before serving.
Notes
- Use pre-sliced smoked salmon to save time and ensure ease in assembling.
- Ensure the baguette slices are toasted evenly to balance crispiness and softness.
Nancy has been a plant person from an early age. That interest blossomed into a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Nancy worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.