– **Title**: Smoked Salmon Crostini
– **Ingredients**:
– 1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2 inch pieces
– 4 oz cream cheese, softened
– 4 oz smoked salmon
– 1 tbsp capers, drained
– 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or more for garnish)
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– **Instructions**:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes or until the bread is toasted and golden brown. Remove and let cool slightly.
4. In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the lemon juice and zest until smooth. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture onto each toasted baguette slice.
6. Top each crostini with a piece of smoked salmon.
7. Add a few capers and a slice of red onion on top of the salmon.
8. Garnish with fresh dill and an extra squeeze of lemon if desired.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy your Smoked Salmon Crostini!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A classic French baguette gives a crispy texture. If unavailable, try ciabatta or whole grain bread for a different flavor. Just remember to slice it thin for that crostini crunch!
Smoked Salmon: The star of this recipe, smoked salmon adds a rich flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using smoked trout or even thin slices of roasted chicken for a lighter option.
Cream Cheese: Soft, creamy, and flavorful! If you want a lighter choice, use Greek yogurt or cottage cheese mixed with some herbs. Both options maintain creaminess with less fat.
Capers: These tiny flavor bombs add a tangy bite. If you don’t have them, try chopped olives or pickles as they can also bring a salty punch to your crostini.
Fresh Herbs: Chives and dill brighten up the dish. If you can’t find fresh herbs, dried herbs can work in a pinch—just use less since they are stronger in flavor.
How Do I Make My Baguette Perfectly Toasted?
Toasting your baguette correctly is crucial for a good crostini. A well-toasted slice provides the perfect base for toppings and ensures a delightful crunch!
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before you start.
- Arrange your sliced baguette on a baking sheet. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil—not too much, or they’ll get soggy!
- Bake for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them golden brown, not burnt. Flip them halfway for even toasting if you prefer.
- Let them cool slightly before adding the cream cheese and toppings. This ensures they hold up well and don’t get mushy!
How to Make Smoked Salmon Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crostini:
- 1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- Olive oil (for brushing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp capers, drained (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp black sesame seeds
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Smoked Salmon Crostini recipe will take you about 20 minutes to prepare. This includes the time to toast the baguette and assemble the toppings. Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will get the oven nice and hot for toasting the baguette slices.
2. Toast the Baguette:
Arrange the sliced baguette pieces on a baking sheet. Brush each side lightly with olive oil to add flavor and help them toast nicely. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
While the baguette slices are toasting, grab a small bowl and mix the softened cream cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the Crostini:
Once the baguette slices are toasted, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a minute. Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture over each toasted slice.
5. Add the Toppings:
Top each slice with the thinly sliced smoked salmon. You can fold the salmon if the pieces are too large to fit on the bread. Then, add a couple of slices of red onion and sprinkle with capers if you’re using them for an extra zing.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finish off each crostini with a sprinkle of chopped chives, dill (if using), sesame seeds, and black sesame seeds. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side. Squeeze a bit of lemon juice on top just before enjoying! These bites are sure to impress!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for Crostini?
Absolutely! While a French baguette is traditional, you can use sourdough, whole-grain bread, or even gluten-free bread. Just adjust the baking time if the bread thickness varies—keep an eye on it until it’s golden and crispy.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the cream cheese mixture and toppings ahead of time. Store the cream cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply toast the bread and assemble the crostini with the chilled toppings!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Crostini?
Store any leftover crostini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. However, the toasted baguette slices will lose their crispiness. For best results, store the toppings separately and assemble fresh before serving.
Can I Substitute the Smoked Salmon with Another Topping?
Definitely! If you’re not a fan of smoked salmon, try using canned tuna, roasted red peppers, or grilled vegetables. Just ensure that whatever you choose complements the cream cheese and other toppings!
