Smoked Salmon Crostini With Dill Cream Cheese Spread
Smoked Salmon Crostini With Dill Cream Cheese Spread is a delightful appetizer perfect for gatherings, brunches, or even a cozy night in. This dish combines crispy baguette slices with a creamy dill spread and the rich flavor of smoked salmon. It’s easy to prepare, visually appealing, and bursting with fresh flavors, making it a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute entertaining.
- Flavorful Combination: The blend of cream cheese, dill, and smoked salmon offers a refreshing taste that pleases every palate.
- Versatile Serving Options: Whether as an appetizer or a light snack, these crostini fit any gathering or casual get-together.
- Beautiful Presentation: The colorful toppings make each crostini look inviting and gourmet, impressing your guests effortlessly.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out the toppings or add extras like sliced cucumbers or radishes for more variety.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes preparing Smoked Salmon Crostini With Dill Cream Cheese Spread simple and enjoyable. Gather these essentials before you start.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: A must-have for evenly toasting the baguette slices to achieve that perfect crispiness.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without any mess.
- Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for slicing the baguette and garnishes neatly.
- Spatula: Useful for spreading the cream cheese mixture evenly on each crostini.

Ingredients
For the Crostini
- 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Dill Cream Cheese Spread
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Topping
- 4 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon capers, drained
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced into wedges (for garnish)
- Fresh dill sprigs (for garnish)
How to Make Smoked Salmon Crostini With Dill Cream Cheese Spread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Crostini
- Brush both sides of the baguette slices with olive oil.
- Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Dill Cream Cheese Spread
In a medium bowl:
1. Combine the softened cream cheese, chopped dill, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined and smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Crostini
- Spread a generous amount of the dill cream cheese spread onto each crostini.
- Top each one with a piece of smoked salmon, a few capers, and a small sprig of fresh dill.
Step 5: Serve
Arrange the assembled crostini on a platter. Garnish with lemon wedges and extra dill sprigs. Serve immediately and enjoy!
How to Serve Smoked Salmon Crostini With Dill Cream Cheese Spread
Serving Smoked Salmon Crostini with Dill Cream Cheese Spread is a delightful way to impress your guests. This dish not only looks beautiful but also offers a burst of flavors that everyone will enjoy.
As an Appetizer
- Start your gathering off right by serving these crostini as a light appetizer. They are easy to grab and perfect for mingling.
At a Brunch
- These crostini make an excellent addition to any brunch spread. Pair them with fresh fruit and coffee for a well-rounded meal.
For Holiday Gatherings
- Present these delicious crostini during holiday celebrations. Their elegant appearance adds a touch of sophistication to your festive table.
As Part of a Charcuterie Board
- Include these crostini on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, olives, and nuts. They complement many flavors and create a stunning visual display.
How to Perfect Smoked Salmon Crostini With Dill Cream Cheese Spread
To ensure your Smoked Salmon Crostini with Dill Cream Cheese Spread is the best it can be, follow these handy tips.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh dill and high-quality smoked salmon. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall flavor profile.
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Toast the Baguette Properly: Make sure the baguette slices are golden brown and crispy. This provides the perfect base for the spread and toppings.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dill cream cheese spread before assembling. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for maximum flavor.
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Serve Immediately: These crostini are best enjoyed fresh. Assemble them shortly before serving to maintain their crispness.
Best Side Dishes for Smoked Salmon Crostini With Dill Cream Cheese Spread
Pairing side dishes with your Smoked Salmon Crostini can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement this dish wonderfully.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with seasonal greens dressed in vinaigrette balances the richness of the crostini.
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Cucumber Slices: Fresh cucumber slices provide a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the creamy spread.
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Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted veggies add warmth and depth, making for a hearty accompaniment to the delicate crostini.
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Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of fresh fruits can add sweetness, creating an appealing contrast to savory flavors.
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Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses such as goat cheese or brie, which pair nicely with both smoked salmon and dill.
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Chips or Crackers: Offer some crunchy chips or assorted crackers on the side for an added texture that guests can enjoy at their leisure.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Smoked Salmon Crostini With Dill Cream Cheese Spread turns out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to avoid.
- Skipping the oil: Not brushing olive oil on the baguette slices can result in a dry crostini. Always brush both sides with olive oil for a crispy texture.
- Over-baking the crostini: Baking for too long can lead to burnt crostini. Keep an eye on them and remove them once they are golden brown.
- Inadequate mixing: Failing to thoroughly mix the cream cheese spread can leave lumps. Make sure it’s smooth and creamy before spreading it on the crostini.
- Ignoring flavors: Not seasoning the cream cheese spread can make it bland. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Assembling too early: Assembling crostini ahead of time can make them soggy. Assemble just before serving for maximum crispiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Keep the smoked salmon separate from the assembled crostini to maintain crispness.
Freezing Smoked Salmon Crostini With Dill Cream Cheese Spread
- It’s best not to freeze assembled crostini, as they will lose their texture.
- You can freeze the dill cream cheese spread separately for up to 1 month.
Reheating Smoked Salmon Crostini With Dill Cream Cheese Spread
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds; check frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, turning gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Smoked Salmon Crostini With Dill Cream Cheese Spread.
Can I use other types of bread?
Yes! You can use any crusty bread like sourdough or ciabatta instead of a baguette.
How can I customize the dill cream cheese spread?
Feel free to add other herbs like chives or parsley, or mix in some finely chopped capers for extra flavor.
What can I serve with Smoked Salmon Crostini With Dill Cream Cheese Spread?
These crostinis pair well with a light salad, or you could serve them as part of a charcuterie board.
How long does this recipe take?
The preparation and baking time is approximately 20-30 minutes, making it a quick and simple appetizer.
Final Thoughts
Smoked Salmon Crostini With Dill Cream Cheese Spread is an elegant yet easy appetizer that is perfect for any gathering. Its creamy texture and fresh flavors make it a crowd-pleaser. Feel free to customize toppings or spreads according to your taste preferences!
Smoked Salmon Crostini With Dill Cream Cheese Spread
Smoked Salmon Crostini With Dill Cream Cheese Spread is a sophisticated yet simple appetizer that elevates any gathering. This delightful dish features crispy baguette slices topped with a creamy dill-infused spread and luxurious smoked salmon. Perfect for brunches, parties, or a cozy evening at home, these crostini are easy to prepare and visually stunning. With each bite, you’ll experience a harmonious blend of flavors that will impress your guests and leave them wanting more. Customize the toppings with fresh vegetables or herbs to make it your own.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients
- 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 4 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon capers, drained
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced into wedges (for garnish)
- Fresh dill sprigs (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush both sides of baguette slices with olive oil and arrange on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chopped dill, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture onto each crostini. Top with smoked salmon, capers, and fresh dill sprigs.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges for garnish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 crostinis (about 50g)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg