Smoked Salmon Crostini with Cream Cheese

Smoked Salmon Crostini with Cream Cheese is a timeless appetizer that delivers sophistication with minimal effort. Crisp toasted bread topped with silky cream cheese and delicate smoked salmon creates a luxurious bite that feels right at home at brunch tables, holiday gatherings, cocktail parties, or elegant dinners. This recipe celebrates simplicity while allowing high-quality ingredients to shine.

With its balance of creamy, smoky, and slightly salty flavors, this crostini is both refreshing and indulgent. It’s quick to prepare, visually stunning, and endlessly customizable—making it a go-to recipe when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s effortless yet refined. It proves that you don’t need complicated techniques to create something special. The contrast between crunchy bread, smooth cream cheese, and delicate smoked salmon is incredibly satisfying, and the fresh herbs and citrus add brightness to every bite.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Elegant appetizer with minimal prep
• No cooking required beyond toasting
• Perfect for entertaining or brunch
• Uses simple, high-impact ingredients
• Ready in minutes but looks gourmet

This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style.

Recipe Overview

• Course: Appetizer / Starter
• Cuisine: European / Mediterranean-inspired
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 18 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings (12 crostini)
• Calories: Approx. 120 calories per crostini

Ingredients

• 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 6 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional garnishes: capers, red onion, chives

Cooking Directions

1. Toast the baguette slices until crisp
2. Prepare the cream cheese mixture
3. Assemble crostini with cream cheese and salmon
4. Garnish and serve

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Toast the Bread

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush baguette slices lightly with olive oil and place on a baking sheet. Toast for 7–8 minutes until golden and crisp. Cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare Cream Cheese

In a bowl, mix cream cheese with lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped dill until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble Crostini

Spread a generous layer of cream cheese on each toasted baguette slice.

Step 4: Add Smoked Salmon

Gently fold or drape smoked salmon over the cream cheese.

Step 5: Garnish

Top with black pepper and optional garnishes like capers or chives.

How to Serve

• Serve on a wooden board or platter
• Arrange in a single layer for presentation
• Add lemon wedges on the side
• Pair with sparkling wine or white wine
• Serve immediately for best texture

Recipe Tips

• Use high-quality smoked salmon for best flavor
• Soften cream cheese fully for easy spreading
• Toast bread just before serving to maintain crunch
• Avoid oversalting—salmon is naturally salty
• Add garnishes just before serving

Variations

Herbed Cream Cheese

Mix cream cheese with chives, parsley, or tarragon.

Avocado Salmon Crostini

Add mashed avocado between cream cheese and salmon.

Spicy Version

Add chili flakes or horseradish to cream cheese.

Dairy-Free Option

Use plant-based cream cheese alternatives.

Cucumber Base

Replace bread with cucumber slices for low-carb option.

Freezing and Storage

Storage

• Store cream cheese mixture refrigerated up to 3 days
• Smoked salmon should be used within 2 days once opened

Freezing

• Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula or butter knife
• Cutting board and knife

Conclusion

Smoked Salmon Crostini with Cream Cheese is a beautifully simple appetizer that delivers big flavor with little effort. Perfect for entertaining or elevating everyday meals, this recipe combines elegance, freshness, and indulgence in every bite. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a staple for gatherings and special occasions alike.