If you’re looking for an appetizer that is easy to make, incredibly delicious, and looks stunning on any platter, smoked salmon crostini is the perfect choice! These crispy, golden baguette slices are topped with creamy spreads, fresh herbs, and delicate smoked salmon, making them an elegant and flavorful bite-sized treat.

Perfect for brunches, cocktail parties, weddings, or holiday gatherings, these two smoked salmon crostini recipes will take your appetizer game to the next level. Let’s dive into these simple yet gourmet recipes!

Table of Contents

1. What Makes Smoked Salmon Crostini So Special?
2. Essential Ingredients for Smoked Salmon Crostini
3. Tips for the Perfect Crostini
4. Recipe 1: Classic Cream Cheese & Smoked Salmon Crostini
5. Recipe 2: Avocado & Smoked Salmon Crostini
6. Best Pairings for Smoked Salmon Crostini
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
8. FAQs

What Makes Smoked Salmon Crostini So Special?

Smoked salmon crostini is the ultimate gourmet appetizer for any occasion. Here’s why:

✔ Crispy & Creamy – The combination of toasted bread, smooth spreads, and buttery salmon is irresistible.
✔ Rich & Flavorful – The smokiness of salmon, the brightness of lemon, and the creaminess of cheese or avocado create an amazing balance.
✔ Elegant Yet Easy – It looks fancy and impressive, but takes only 15 minutes to make!

Essential Ingredients for Smoked Salmon Crostini

1. Bread for Crostini

• Baguette – Classic, crispy, and holds toppings well.
• Ciabatta – Slightly softer but still delicious.

2. Smoked Salmon

• High-quality smoked salmon is essential for the best flavor.
• Lox or cold-smoked salmon works best for crostini.

3. Creamy Base

• Cream cheese – Classic and tangy.
• Avocado mash – A fresh, healthy alternative.

4. Garnishes & Extras

• Capers – Adds a briny, salty kick.
• Fresh dill or chives – Bright and herby.
• Lemon zest – Enhances freshness.
• Everything bagel seasoning – For an extra flavor boost!

Tips for the Perfect Crostini

🔥 Slice the baguette thinly – ½-inch slices are best for crispiness.
🔥 Toast to perfection – Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes until golden.
🔥 Let it cool before topping – Prevents sogginess from spreads.
🔥 Use high-quality smoked salmon – The fresher, the better!

Recipe 1: Classic Cream Cheese & Smoked Salmon Crostini

Ingredients:

• 1 baguette, sliced into thin rounds
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 6 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp capers
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Salt & black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet, brush with olive oil, and toast for 10 minutes until golden brown.
3. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread cream cheese mixture on each toasted baguette slice.
5. Top with smoked salmon, a few capers, and fresh dill.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

🥇 Pro Tip: Add a tiny drizzle of honey for a subtle sweet contrast!

Recipe 2: Avocado & Smoked Salmon Crostini

Ingredients:

• 1 baguette, sliced into rounds
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 ripe avocado
• ½ tsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• 6 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp red onion, finely sliced
• 1 tbsp everything bagel seasoning
• 1 tbsp chopped chives

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place baguette slices on a baking sheet, brush with olive oil, and toast for 10 minutes.
3. In a bowl, mash avocado with lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the avocado mixture onto the toasted baguette slices.
5. Add smoked salmon, a few slices of red onion, and a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning.
6. Garnish with chopped chives and serve!

🥇 Pro Tip: Want extra crunch? Add thin cucumber slices beneath the salmon!

Best Pairings for Smoked Salmon Crostini

🍷 Wine Pairings:

• Chardonnay – Complements the creamy cheese.
• Sauvignon Blanc – Crisp and citrusy.
• Sparkling Wine or Champagne – Perfect for celebrations!

☕ Other Drinks:

• Earl Grey tea – A great brunch pairing.
• Lemon-infused sparkling water – Light and refreshing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Using soggy bread – Always toast before topping!
🚫 Adding toppings too early – Assemble just before serving to keep textures crisp.
🚫 Using low-quality salmon – Fresh, high-quality smoked salmon makes all the difference.

FAQs

1. Can I make crostini ahead of time?

Yes! Toast the bread and prep the toppings separately. Assemble just before serving.

2. Can I use gluten-free bread?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free baguette or crackers as an alternative.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours, but crostini is best eaten fresh.

4. Can I make a dairy-free version?

Yes! Substitute cream cheese with cashew cream or hummus.

5. What’s the best way to serve crostini for a party?

Arrange on a large platter with extra toppings so guests can customize their own!

Final Thoughts

Smoked salmon crostini is an effortless yet elegant appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you go for classic cream cheese or avocado and bagel seasoning, these crostini will impress your guests with every bite!

🔥 Ready to make the best smoked salmon crostini? Try these recipes today and enjoy gourmet flavors in minutes!