These smoked salmon crostini are simple yet fancy! They feature crispy bread topped with creamy cheese and tasty smoked salmon. Perfect for a snack or a party treat!
Honestly, who can resist crispy bread with delicious toppings? I love making these for gatherings because they disappear in a flash. Plus, they’re so easy to prepare!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A French baguette gives that perfect crispiness. If you’re looking for a substitute, try using ciabatta or sourdough. They provide a nice texture too!
Cream Cheese: I love using regular cream cheese for its rich creaminess. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
Smoked Salmon: Fresh smoked salmon brings amazing flavor. If it’s unavailable, try lox for similar taste, or even use canned salmon, though the texture will differ slightly.
Red Onion: These add a nice bite. For milder flavor, you could switch to green onions or even capers. They work well with salmon too!
How Do I Make My Crostini Extra Crispy?
The key to a great crostini is achieving that ideal crisp! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Make sure to slice the baguette evenly to ensure uniform toasting.
- Brush each slice with olive oil before toasting. This helps them crisp up nicely.
- Toast them in a preheated oven, and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet – this lets hot air circulate for even cooking.
- Keep an eye on them as they toast, turning halfway to prevent burning.
How to Make Smoked Salmon Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 oz smoked salmon, sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh dill sprigs, for garnish
- Everything bagel seasoning or black pepper, for sprinkling
- Olive oil, for brushing baguette slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 25 minutes to enjoy these tasty treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot for the crostini. This helps them crisp up perfectly!
2. Prepare the Baguette:
Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Arrange these slices on a baking sheet and brush a light layer of olive oil over each one. This oil will help them toast up beautifully.
3. Toast the Bread:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and toast the bread for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them and turn the slices halfway through to make sure they’re golden and crispy all over.
4. Cream Cheese Spread:
Once your toasted bread is out of the oven and has cooled slightly, it’s time to spread the cream cheese! Use a generous amount on each slice to create a creamy base for the toppings.
5. Add the Salmon:
Next, carefully place a slice of smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese on each crostini. You can be generous with the salmon because it’s the star of this dish!
6. Top with Onions:
Add a few thin slices of red onion over the smoked salmon for some extra flavor. This adds a nice crunch and a little zing!
7. Season and Garnish:
Sprinkle some everything bagel seasoning or freshly cracked black pepper on top of each crostini to enhance the flavor. Finally, add a small sprig of fresh dill for a pretty finish.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Your smoked salmon crostini are all ready! Arrange them on a nice serving platter and enjoy these tasty bites with your family and friends immediately.
Can I Use a Different Type of Bread for Crostini?
Absolutely! While a baguette is traditional, you can use ciabatta, sourdough, or even whole-grain bread for a healthier option. Just make sure to slice it evenly for consistent toasting!
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for alternatives, Greek yogurt works well for a lighter spread, or you can try a dairy-free cream cheese if you have dietary restrictions. Just ensure whatever you choose is spreadable!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To keep leftovers fresh, store the toasted bread slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For the cream cheese and salmon topping, keep them in the fridge and assemble just before serving for the best texture and taste.
Can I Prepare These in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the components ahead! Toast the bread and store it in an airtight container, and keep the cream cheese and salmon in the fridge. Assemble the crostini right before serving to maintain that crispy texture!