Elevate any gathering with Smoked Salmon Crostini, an easy yet elegant appetizer perfect for parties, holiday entertaining, or casual get-togethers. These bite-sized toasts pair the rich, smoky flavor of salmon with creamy cheese, fresh herbs, and a touch of acidity, creating a sophisticated and visually stunning hors d’oeuvre.

The beauty of this appetizer lies in its simplicity and versatility. Crisp toasted baguette slices provide the perfect base, while cream cheese adds richness and a silky texture. Smoked salmon brings a luxurious flavor profile, complemented by fresh dill, capers, and a squeeze of lemon for brightness. Optional red onion or microgreens can elevate the presentation further.

Perfect for last-minute entertaining, these crostini can be assembled in minutes yet look like a chef’s masterpiece. They are also highly adaptable for different dietary preferences, including gluten-free options using crackers or toasted gluten-free bread.

Ingredients

Crostini Base
- 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
Toppings
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 6 oz smoked salmon slices
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tbsp capers
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Baguette
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush baguette slices lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Place on a baking sheet and toast for 8–10 minutes until golden and crisp.
Prepare the Toppings
While bread is toasting, soften cream cheese and chop fresh dill. Slice red onion thinly if using.
Assemble the Crostini
Spread a generous layer of cream cheese on each toasted baguette slice. Top with a folded piece of smoked salmon. Sprinkle with dill and capers. Add red onion slices if desired.
Garnish and Serve
Arrange crostini on a serving platter. Add a small lemon wedge next to each piece for squeezing over the salmon. Serve immediately, or cover loosely and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Tips for Perfect Crostini

Bread Choice: Use a fresh baguette for the best texture. Sourdough or ciabatta works well too.
Avoid Sogginess: Spread cream cheese on cooled toast to prevent sogginess.
Flavor Boost: Add a thin drizzle of honey or mustard-dill sauce for extra flavor.
Make Ahead: Toast baguette slices up to 1 day in advance; assemble just before serving.

Variations

Mini Bagels: Substitute bagel slices for a brunch-friendly option.
Avocado Cream Cheese: Mix cream cheese with mashed avocado for a creamy, green twist.
Spicy Kick: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or smoked paprika.
Vegetarian Option: Replace salmon with roasted red peppers or marinated zucchini slices.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

Crostini originated in Italy as small toasted bread slices topped with vegetables, meats, or cheese, designed as bite-sized snacks to accompany wine. Smoked salmon became a popular addition in modern European and American cuisine due to its luxurious flavor and ease of preparation.

These elegant appetizers are now a staple for cocktail parties and holiday celebrations, offering a balance of texture, flavor, and visual appeal. The combination of creamy, smoky, and tangy ingredients keeps guests coming back for more.

Storage & Reheating

Assemble crostini just before serving for the best texture.
Store toasted baguette separately in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Leftover smoked salmon should be refrigerated and consumed within 2 days.