Description
For the Crostini:
1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
1 garlic clove, halved
For the Topping:
4 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced
1 avocado, mashed
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1/2 tsp lemon zest
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Lemon Dill Drizzle:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp honey
1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp fresh dill, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush with olive oil.
Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden and crisp. Remove from oven and rub each slice with the halved garlic clove.
In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, mashed avocado, fresh dill, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.
Spread a generous layer of the avocado-cream cheese mixture onto each toasted baguette slice.
Top with a slice of smoked salmon.
In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, fresh dill, salt, and black pepper.
Drizzle the lemon dill sauce over the crostini before serving.
Enjoy these creamy, smoky, and zesty bites!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 20 minutes Kcal: 180 per crostini Servings: 12 crostini
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect crostini every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice a fresh baguette into ½-inch pieces on a slight diagonal for a larger surface area. Arrange them on a baking sheet and brush one side lightly with olive oil. Bake for 8-10 minutes, but check at 8 minutes—they should be golden and crisp, not browned. Immediately upon removing them from the oven, rub the top of each slice with the cut side of a halved garlic clove for a subtle, aromatic flavor.
While the crostini cool, prepare the toppings. In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine the softened cream cheese and mashed avocado until smooth. Fold in the chopped dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. For the drizzle, vigorously whisk the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and dill until emulsified. To assemble, spread the avocado mixture on each garlic-rubbed crostini, add a folded piece of smoked salmon, and finish with a light drizzle of the lemon-dill sauce.
Serving Suggestions
These elegant crostini are versatile for any occasion. For a brunch spread, serve them alongside a fruit platter and mimosas. As a dinner party appetizer, pair them with a crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a brut Champagne. To create a fuller grazing board, add complementary items like cornichons, capers, thinly sliced red onion, and a wedge of lemon for extra zest.
How-to Summary
Toast baguette slices brushed with oil. Rub with garlic. Mix cream cheese, avocado, dill, and zest. Spread on toasts. Top with smoked salmon. Whisk oil, lemon juice, honey, mustard, and dill for a sauce. Drizzle and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the components ahead of time? Yes, prepare the crostini toasts and the lemon-dill sauce up to a day in advance. Store toasts in an airtight container and the sauce in the fridge. Assemble just before serving to prevent sogginess.
What’s a good substitute for smoked salmon? For a different flavor, try thinly sliced prosciutto or cured trout. For a vegetarian version, use marinated artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers.
How do I prevent the avocado mixture from browning? Ensure the cream cheese is fully incorporated with the avocado, as the fat helps create a barrier. Adding the lemon zest also introduces acidity that slows oxidation. For best results, assemble within an hour of mixing.
My baguette slices are getting too hard. You likely over-toasted them. Check them a minute or two earlier next time. The goal is a crisp exterior that still has a slight chew, not a cracker.
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh? Fresh dill is highly recommended for its bright flavor. If you must substitute, use ⅓ the amount of dried dill (e.g., 1 tsp fresh = ⅓ tsp dried), but note the flavor will be less vibrant.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using a baguette that is too soft or fresh, as it won’t toast with a satisfying crunch. Do not overmix the avocado-cream cheese blend, as it can become gummy. Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature for a smooth, spreadable consistency. When applying the drizzle, use a light hand; too much sauce can overwhelm the delicate salmon and make the crostini soggy. Finally, never assemble these too far in advance—they are best served immediately.
Conclusion
These Smoked Salmon and Avocado Crostini are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, masterfully balancing creamy, smoky, and zesty flavors. With a straightforward preparation and elegant presentation, they transform simple ingredients into a sophisticated appetizer. By following this enhanced guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can effortlessly create a dish that looks and tastes professionally crafted. Perfect for any gathering, these bites are sure to impress your guests.
