Finding reliable and crowd pleasing appetizers can be a challenge when you are planning a gathering or just want a savory snack at home. You want something that looks impressive but does not require hours in the kitchen. This is where Smoked Salmon Recipes shine. They offer a touch of elegance and savory flavor that feels special without a lot of fuss.
This particular recipe for Smoked Salmon Crostini is one of my absolute favorites. It brings together the classic flavors of a New York style bagel but in a crisp, bite sized format. It serves beautifully as a Smoked Salmon Appetizer for holiday parties, brunch spreads, or even a light lunch. The combination of whipped chive cream cheese and salty everything bagel seasoning is truly delightful.
Jump To:
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to keep this dish in your rotation of Smoked Salmon Recipes. First and foremost, it is incredibly fast. You can have the entire platter ready in about twenty minutes or less. This makes it ideal for last minute guests or when you are short on time but still want to serve something tasty.
Another reason this recipe works so well is the texture. You get a satisfying crunch from the toasted baguette which contrasts beautifully with the smooth and airy whipped cream cheese. Then you get the silky texture of the chilled salmon on top. It is a sensory experience that keeps people coming back for a second piece.
Finally, this recipe is budget friendly and customizable. You do not need expensive equipment or hard to find ingredients. A simple baguette and some quality toppings are all it takes. While it looks high end, it is actually quite affordable to make at home compared to ordering a similar dish at a restaurant. If you need fresh Smoked Salmon Ideas, this one is a winner every time.
Ingredients
Great Smoked Salmon Recipes rely on fresh components. Here is everything you need to build these delicious bites.
- 1 French baguette, cut into half inch slices
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 8 ounces whipped chive cream cheese
- 4 ounces Nova lox salmon
- ¼ red onion, very thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon Everything But the Bagel seasoning
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped chives or scallions
The choice of bread is important here. A standard French baguette works best because it provides the right surface area for a two bite appetizer. If you cannot find a baguette, you could use a ciabatta loaf cut into small squares, but the baguette round is the classic choice.
For the cream cheese, using a whipped variety is helpful because it spreads easily without tearing the toast. If you only have a block of regular cream cheese, just let it soften at room temperature and whip it vigorously with a fork before using.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Making this Smoked Salmon Appetizer is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to ensure you get the crispest bread and the freshest flavor.
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven heats up, take your French baguette and slice it into rounds. Aim for slices that are about one half inch thick. This thickness ensures the bread is sturdy enough to hold the toppings but thin enough to bite through easily. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Brush the top of each slice with a little extra virgin olive oil. This adds flavor and helps them brown evenly.
Step 2: Bake the Crostini
Place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake the bread for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them towards the end. You want the edges to be lightly golden brown and the centers to be crisp. Once they are done, remove the pan from the oven and let the bread cool slightly. It is important to let them cool so they do not melt the cream cheese immediately upon contact.
Step 3: Assemble the Toppings
Now comes the fun part. Spread about a tablespoon of the whipped chive cream cheese onto each piece of toasted bread. Top the cheese with a piece of Nova lox salmon. Layer on a couple of the very thin red onion slices. Finish each piece with a generous shake of Everything But the Bagel seasoning and a pinch of fresh chopped chives or scallions. Serve them immediately on your favorite platter or cutting board.
How To Store Leftovers
Unlike some heavy Salmon Dinner Recipes that reheat well, this appetizer is best enjoyed fresh. Once you assemble the crostini, the moisture from the cream cheese will eventually make the bread soft. Therefore, it is best to assemble only what you plan to eat.
However, if you have leftover components, you can store them effectively. Keep the toasted baguette slices in an airtight container or a bag at room temperature to maintain their crunch. Store the cream cheese, smoked salmon, and chopped vegetables in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you are ready for a snack, just assemble them fresh. The salmon should generally be consumed within a few days of opening the package.
Tips
Here are a few tips to ensure your foray into Smoked Salmon Recipes is a success. First, pay attention to the red onion. Raw onion can be overpowering if the slices are too thick. Use a very sharp knife or a mandoline to get them paper thin. This provides a nice bite without dominating the delicate flavor of the fish.
If you cannot find chive cream cheese at your local grocery store, do not worry. You can easily make your own. Simply take plain cream cheese, let it soften, and mix in a few tablespoons of fresh chopped chives. You can also mix in chopped scallions for a stronger onion flavor.
For those looking for lighter Smoked Salmon Ideas, try swapping the baguette for cucumber slices. Slice a large English cucumber into rounds and use them as the base instead of bread. This creates a refreshing, low carb version that is excellent for summer gatherings.
Presentation matters with appetizers. Since this dish has beautiful colors from the pink salmon and green herbs, serve it on a simple white platter or a rustic wooden board to let the food stand out. It pairs wonderfully with sparkling water or a light beverage.
Conclusion
This recipe is proof that delicious food does not have to be complicated. With just a few quality ingredients, you can create a Smoked Salmon Appetizer that feels upscale and tastes amazing. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself to a nice weekend lunch, these crostini bites are sure to satisfy.
I hope this dish inspires you to try more Smoked Salmon Recipes in your kitchen. It is such a versatile ingredient that adds instant flavor to any meal. Give this recipe a try next time you have a craving for something savory and crisp.
FAQ
Can I make this recipe gluten free?
Yes, absolutely. You can substitute the French baguette for a gluten free baguette or cracker. Many stores carry excellent gluten free bread options in the freezer section. Just toast them as directed until they are crisp.
What is the difference between lox and smoked salmon?
People often use the terms interchangeably, but there is a slight difference. Lox is typically cured in brine but not smoked, while smoked salmon is cured and then smoked. Nova lox, which this recipe calls for, is actually cold smoked after curing, giving it a milder smoky flavor that is less salty than traditional lox. Both work well in Smoked Salmon Recipes.
Can I use a different seasoning?
If you do not have Everything But the Bagel seasoning, you can make a quick mix using sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and coarse salt. Alternatively, simple fresh cracked black pepper and a squeeze of lemon juice is a classic combination that tastes great.
Can this serve as a main course?
While this is designed as an appetizer, you could certainly eat a larger portion alongside a salad for a light lunch. However, for heartier meals, you might want to explore other Salmon Dinner Recipes that involve cooked fillets or pasta dishes.
Smoked Salmon Crostini
This recipe for Smoked Salmon Crostini offers a touch of elegance and savory flavor, bringing together classic New York style bagel flavors in a crisp, bite-sized format. Perfect for parties, brunch, or a light lunch.
Requirements
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Slice baguette into ½-inch rounds. Arrange slices in a single layer on a large baking sheet and brush with olive oil.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until lightly golden brown and crisp. Remove from oven and cool slightly.
- Spread about 1 tablespoon whipped chive cream cheese onto each toasted bread slice. Top with a piece of Nova lox salmon and very thin red onion slices.
- Finish each crostini with a generous shake of Everything But the Bagel seasoning and a pinch of fresh chopped chives or scallions. Serve immediately on your favorite platter or cutting board.
Notes
This appetizer is best enjoyed fresh. Assemble only what you plan to eat, as moisture from the cream cheese will eventually soften the bread.
Store toasted baguette slices in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain crunch. Keep cream cheese, smoked salmon, and chopped vegetables in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator.
Consume smoked salmon within a few days of opening the package to ensure freshness.
For paper-thin red onion slices that don’t overpower the delicate fish, use a very sharp knife or a mandoline.
If chive cream cheese is unavailable, mix softened plain cream cheese with a few tablespoons of fresh chopped chives or scallions.
For a lighter, low-carb option, substitute baguette rounds with slices of English cucumber.
Presentation matters! Serve these colorful crostini on a simple white platter or a rustic wooden board to highlight the food.
Nutrition
Calories
Sugar
Fat
Carbs
