Smoked Salmon Crostini: An Elegant Appetizer for Any Occasion

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Few appetizers feel as effortlessly elegant as smoked salmon crostini. With crisp toasted bread, creamy cheese, and silky smoked salmon, this classic bite-sized appetizer is perfect for brunches, cocktail parties, holidays, and special gatherings. Simple ingredients come together to create bold flavor and beautiful presentation.

Smoked salmon crostini are beloved because they strike the perfect balance: crunchy, creamy, salty, and fresh. They feel upscale yet approachable, making them ideal whether you’re hosting a formal dinner or a casual get-together.

Why Smoked Salmon Crostini Are Always a Hit

This appetizer has stood the test of time for good reason:

  • Minimal prep
  • No cooking required beyond toasting
  • Elegant presentation
  • Perfect make-ahead option
  • Pairs well with wine and cocktails

They look impressive on a platter but take very little effort to assemble.

Choosing the Best Smoked Salmon

For the best crostini, choose high-quality smoked salmon. Look for:

  • Cold-smoked salmon (lox-style)
  • Thinly sliced, silky texture
  • Mild smoky flavor

Avoid overly thick or dry smoked salmon, which can overpower the crostini.

The Perfect Crostini Base

A baguette is the traditional choice for crostini. When sliced and toasted, it provides the ideal crunchy base to hold the toppings without becoming soggy.

For best results:

  • Slice bread ½-inch thick
  • Brush lightly with olive oil
  • Toast until golden and crisp

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Baguette
  • Olive oil
  • Cream cheese
  • Lemon zest and juice
  • Smoked salmon
  • Capers
  • Fresh dill
  • Black pepper

These ingredients are simple but carefully chosen to complement each other perfectly.

Instructions

  1. Toast the bread
    Slice baguette, brush with olive oil, and toast at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes until golden.
  2. Prepare cream cheese spread
    Mix cream cheese with lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice until smooth.
  3. Assemble crostini
    Spread cream cheese on each toast.
  4. Add salmon
    Layer smoked salmon slices on top.
  5. Garnish
    Top with capers, fresh dill, cracked black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
  6. Serve immediately
    Best enjoyed fresh.

Smoked Salmon Crostini

Crispy crostini topped with lemony cream cheese, silky smoked salmon, capers, and fresh dill.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 24 crostini
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American, European
Calories: 95

Ingredients
  

  • 1 baguette sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for brushing
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 6 oz smoked salmon thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp capers drained
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill chopped
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper freshly cracked

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Knife
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Brush baguette slices with olive oil and toast until golden.
  2. Mix cream cheese with lemon zest and juice until smooth.
  3. Spread cream cheese onto toasted bread.
  4. Top with smoked salmon.
  5. Garnish with capers, dill, and black pepper.
  6. Serve immediately.

Notes

Assemble just before serving for best texture.

Tips for the Best Smoked Salmon Crostini

  • Bring cream cheese to room temperature
  • Don’t overload the bread
  • Assemble just before serving
  • Use fresh herbs for brightness

Easy Variations

  • Avocado Salmon Crostini: Add smashed avocado under the salmon
  • Cucumber Salmon Crostini: Add thin cucumber slices
  • Everything Bagel Style: Sprinkle with everything seasoning
  • Spicy Kick: Add a touch of horseradish or chili oil

How to Serve Smoked Salmon Crostini

These crostini are perfect for:

  • Brunch spreads
  • Holiday appetizers
  • Cocktail parties
  • Baby or bridal showers

Pair with sparkling wine, champagne, or a crisp white wine.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

  • Toast bread up to 1 day ahead
  • Prepare cream cheese spread up to 24 hours ahead
  • Assemble just before serving
  • Leftovers are not recommended once assembled

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Entertaining Rotation

Smoked salmon crostini deliver big flavor with minimal effort. They’re timeless, beautiful, and endlessly adaptable — everything you want in a go-to appetizer.

Once you serve these, they’ll become a staple at every gathering

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