Smoked Salmon Crostini Recipe
Introduction
Smoked Salmon Crostini makes an elegant and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Crisp baguette slices topped with a zesty, creamy spread and delicate smoked salmon create a delightful bite every time.

Ingredients
- 1 baguette, sliced 1/2″ thick on a bias
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- 1 lemon
- 8 oz. cream cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup sliced chives
- 8 oz. smoked salmon
- Whole grain mustard, for serving
- Capers, for serving
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and drizzle them lightly with olive oil.
- Step 2: Bake the bread slices until the edges turn lightly golden, about 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Step 3: Zest half of the lemon into a medium bowl. Squeeze in lemon juice until you have about 1 tablespoon. Add cream cheese, chopped dill, and sliced chives. Beat the mixture using a handheld mixer on medium speed or whisk vigorously until fluffy and light, about 2 minutes.
- Step 4: Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture onto each toasted baguette slice. Top with pieces of smoked salmon.
- Step 5: Dollop a small amount of whole grain mustard onto the salmon. Garnish with capers, thinly sliced red onion, and extra dill for a fresh finish.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, toast the baguette slices until very crisp. You can also substitute crème fraîche for cream cheese for a tangier spread.
- If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the sliced red onions in cold water for 10 minutes before assembling.
- Try adding a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a little kick.
Storage
Prepare the cream cheese mixture and keep it refrigerated for up to 2 days. Toast the baguette slices just before serving for the best texture. Once assembled, eat the crostini immediately as the bread will soften quickly. Leftover toppings can be stored separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread instead of a baguette?
Yes, you can use any crusty bread such as a rustic Italian loaf or sourdough. Just slice it about 1/2 inch thick and toast until crisp to hold the toppings well.
What can I substitute for smoked salmon if I don’t eat fish?
Consider using thinly sliced roasted red peppers, grilled zucchini ribbons, or marinated artichoke hearts for a vegetarian alternative that still offers great flavor and texture.
PrintSmoked Salmon Crostini Recipe
These Smoked Salmon Crostini are an elegant and easy appetizer featuring toasted baguette slices topped with a fluffy lemon-dill cream cheese spread, savory smoked salmon, and bright accents of whole grain mustard, capers, red onion, and fresh herbs. Perfect for entertaining or a sophisticated snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 to 14 crostini 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
Bread
- 1 baguette, sliced 1/2″ thick on a bias
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Cream Cheese Spread
- Zest of half a lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 8 oz. cream cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup sliced chives
Toppings
- 8 oz. smoked salmon
- Whole grain mustard, for serving
- Capers, for serving
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a sheet tray in a single even layer. Drizzle the slices lightly with extra-virgin olive oil to ensure crispiness and flavor.
- Toast the baguette slices: Place the sheet tray in the oven and bake the slices until the edges are lightly golden and crisp, about 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Make the lemon-dill cream cheese spread: In a medium bowl, zest half of the lemon and squeeze in the juice until you have about 1 tablespoon. Add the cream cheese, chopped fresh dill, and sliced chives. Using a handheld mixer on medium speed or a whisk, beat the ingredients until the mixture is fluffy and light, about 2 minutes.
- Assemble the crostini: Spread a generous amount of the lemon-dill cream cheese mixture evenly onto each toasted baguette slice. Layer slices of smoked salmon on top. Then dollop each with a bit of whole grain mustard, followed by capers, thinly sliced red onion, and additional fresh dill for garnish.
Notes
- Use day-old baguette for the best texture when toasted.
- Adjust the amount of mustard and capers to taste, as they add saltiness.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute cream cheese with a suitable plant-based alternative.
- Make the cream cheese spread ahead and refrigerate for up to a day for convenience.
- Serve immediately after assembling to keep the crostini crisp.
Keywords: smoked salmon crostini, appetizer, lemon dill cream cheese, toasted baguette, party food, easy appetizer

