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Smoked Salmon Crostini Recipe Easy 5-Step Party Appetizer for Stunning Gatherings

smoked salmon crostini - featured image

A quick and elegant smoked salmon crostini recipe featuring toasted baguette slices topped with a creamy dill-lemon cream cheese spread, smoked salmon, capers, and optional garnishes. Perfect for last-minute gatherings and crowd-pleasing appetizers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium baguette, sliced into ½-inch (1.3 cm) rounds
  • 8 ounces (225 g) thinly sliced smoked salmon
  • 4 ounces (115 g) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons capers, drained
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional garnishes: thinly sliced red onion, microgreens, or fresh dill sprigs

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Slice the baguette into ½-inch (1.3 cm) rounds and arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet.
  3. Mix the minced garlic and olive oil in a small bowl. Using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon, lightly brush each baguette slice with the garlic olive oil.
  4. Toast the baguette slices in the oven for 8-10 minutes until crisp and lightly golden, flipping halfway through if desired.
  5. While the bread toasts, combine softened cream cheese, chopped dill, and lemon zest in a medium bowl and stir until smooth.
  6. Remove toasted baguette slices from the oven and let cool slightly. Spread about 1 tablespoon (15 g) of the cream cheese mixture evenly over each slice.
  7. Top each crostini with a thin slice of smoked salmon, folding or arranging neatly.
  8. Add a few capers on top of the salmon and sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper. Optionally garnish with thinly sliced red onion or microgreens.
  9. Arrange the crostini on a serving platter and serve immediately or chill briefly before serving. If chilled, bring to room temperature for best flavor.

Notes

Use room temperature cream cheese for easier spreading. Watch the bread closely while toasting to avoid burning. For dairy-free, substitute cream cheese with plant-based spread and smoked carrot or tofu for salmon. For gluten-free, use gluten-free baguette or crispbread. Brushing bread with garlic-infused olive oil before toasting enhances flavor and crispiness.

Nutrition

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