Introduction
Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or a festive celebration, Smoked Salmon with Lemon Dill Cream Cheese Crostini is a crowd-pleaser that combines elegance and simplicity. This delightful appetizer features crispy baguette slices topped with creamy lemon-dill spread and fresh smoked salmon, making it the perfect bite for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 thin crusty baguette
Extra virgin olive oil
Salt
1 garlic clove, halved (optional)
250g / 8 oz spreadable cream cheese
1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
Salt and pepper, to taste
200g / 7 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced
Fresh dill sprigs, for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Yield
Serves 4-6
Directions
1. **Prepare Crostini:**
Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F. Slice the baguette into 0.5cm / 1/4-inch thick pieces on the diagonal. Lightly brush both sides with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Arrange the slices on a baking tray and bake for 10 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy. If desired, while warm, rub one side with the cut face of the garlic clove for added flavor.
2. **Prepare Lemon Dill Cream Cheese:**
In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, chopped dill, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
3. **Assemble Crostini:**
Generously spread the lemon dill cream cheese on each crostini. Top with slices of smoked salmon and garnish with a small sprig of fresh dill for a beautiful presentation.
Enjoy your delicious Smoked Salmon with Lemon Dill Cream Cheese Crostini, perfect for pairing with wine or enjoying as a light appetizer!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare Crostini:
– Preheat oven to 180°C/350°F.
– Slice baguette into 0.5cm / 1/4-inch thick pieces on the diagonal.
– Lightly brush both sides with olive oil and sprinkle with a bit of salt.
– Arrange on a baking tray and bake for 10 minutes, turning halfway, until crispy.
– Optional: While warm, rub one side with the cut face of the garlic clove.
Prepare Lemon Dill Cream Cheese:
– In a bowl, combine cream cheese, chopped dill, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Assemble Crostini:
– Spread a generous amount of the lemon dill cream cheese on each crostini.
– Top with a slice of smoked salmon.
– Garnish with a small sprig of fresh dill.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare Crostini:
– Follow the same steps as in the Smoked Salmon Crostini to prepare the crostini base.
Prepare Topping:
– In a bowl, combine quartered cherry tomatoes, sliced basil, and halved bocconcini.
– Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble Crostini:
– Spoon the tomato, basil, and bocconcini mixture onto each crostini.
– Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare Crostini:
– Follow the same steps as in the Smoked Salmon Crostini to prepare the crostini base.
Prepare Avocado Mixture:
– In a bowl, mash the avocado flesh with lime juice until smooth.
– Stir in chopped coriander/cilantro and red chili (if using).
– Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble Crostini:
– Spread a layer of the avocado mixture onto each crostini.
– Top with cooked prawns/shrimp.
– Garnish with additional coriander/cilantro leaves if desired.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare Crostini:
– Follow the same steps as in the Smoked Salmon Crostini to prepare the crostini base.
Prepare Topping:
– In a bowl, combine chopped black and green olives, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, and parsley.
– Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble Crostini:
– Spread a layer of ricotta cheese onto each crostini.
– Top with the Mediterranean mixture.
– Serve immediately.
Notes
Serving Suggestions:
– These crostini are perfect for entertaining and can be served as part of a buffet or appetizer spread.
Storage Instructions:
– For best results, assemble crostini just before serving. Store any leftover toppings separately in the refrigerator.
Customization Options:
– Feel free to substitute ingredients or adjust flavors according to your preferences. Different herbs, cheeses, or toppings can make each crostini unique.
Cook techniques
Prepare Crostini
Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F and slice the baguette diagonally into 0.5cm / 1/4-inch thick pieces. Brush both sides lightly with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with salt before arranging them on a baking tray. Bake for 10 minutes, turning halfway until they are crispy. Optionally, rub the warm crostini with a cut garlic clove for extra flavor.
Mix Flavors
For toppings like cream cheese or avocado mixtures, combine the ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth, ensuring the flavors meld together perfectly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste to enhance the overall flavor profile.
Assemble Crostini
Generously spread the prepared mixture onto each crostini base. Layer with your chosen protein or topping and garnish to add an appealing finish. This step allows for customization based on personal taste.
FAQ
Can I use any type of bread for crostini?
While a thin crusty baguette is ideal for making crostini, you can experiment with other types of bread, such as sourdough or ciabatta, though the texture and crustiness may vary.
How can I make crostini ahead of time?
You can prepare the crostini base a few hours in advance and store them in an airtight container. Assemble with toppings just before serving to ensure freshness.
What can I substitute for smoked salmon?
If you’re looking for alternatives to smoked salmon, you could use thinly sliced cooked shrimp, crab meat, or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option.
How can I make the cream cheese spread lower in calories?
Opt for light or reduced-fat cream cheese to lower the calorie content. Alternatively, you can mix in Greek yogurt for a creamy texture with fewer calories.
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh dill?
Yes, you may use dried dill in place of fresh dill; however, remember that dried herbs are more concentrated. A general rule is to use one-third the amount of dried dill as you would fresh.
Conclusion
The Smoked Salmon with Lemon Dill Cream Cheese Crostini is a delightful and sophisticated appetizer that serves as an excellent introduction to any gathering. Its combination of creamy, tangy flavors and the rich smokiness of the salmon make it a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for parties, brunches, or casual get-togethers, this dish showcases the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something special.
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