There’s a special kind of panic that can set in right before guests are due to arrive. You want that perfect little bite to serve—something that looks elegant and impressive, but is also fresh and light. For years, I struggled to find that balance. That all changed when I embraced the Mediterranean lifestyle, which is built on the magic of simple, beautiful ingredients that you can feel good about serving.
These little herbed avocado and salmon toasts have become my secret weapon for easy entertaining. They’re proof that the most delicious food can also be incredibly nourishing. This is the Mediterranean salmon appetizer that will have everyone asking for the recipe before the main course even hits the table!
Why You’ll Fall in Love With These Crostini
Honestly, what’s not to love? This has become one of my go-to recipes when I have friends over or just want a delicious, light lunch. The best part? It feels so fancy, but it’s unbelievably simple to make.
- Ready in Under 30 Minutes: You can whip these up faster than you can decide what to watch on Netflix.
- Packed with Healthy Fats: With creamy avocado, omega-3-rich salmon, and a drizzle of olive oil, this is a heart-healthy powerhouse.
- So Much Fresh Flavor: Bright lemon, fresh dill, and creamy avocado make every bite taste like sunshine.
- Effortlessly Elegant: They look stunning on a platter, making you look like a culinary superstar with minimal effort.
Celebrating Our Fresh, Flavorful Ingredients
The magic of Mediterranean cooking is all about letting simple, high-quality ingredients shine. This recipe is a perfect example!
Cold-Smoked Salmon
Salmon is a true star in the Mediterranean diet for its amazing flavor and, of course, its abundance of omega-3 fatty acids. Using smoked salmon gives this dish a savory, slightly salty depth that is just irresistible. This has become my favorite Mediterranean recipe with smoked salmon because it feels so indulgent.
Creamy Avocado
What would an avocado and salmon appetizer be without the perfect avocado? It provides that luscious, creamy base and is loaded with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber, which help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
We finish everything with a little drizzle of “liquid gold.” A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds a final layer of peppery, fruity flavor and is packed with antioxidants. It’s a simple touch that makes all the difference.
Your Questions About This Healthy Appetizer, Answered
When you’re new to the Mediterranean lifestyle, it’s natural to have questions. Let’s clear up a few common ones right now!
1.Is smoked salmon allowed on the Mediterranean diet?
Yes, in moderation! The Mediterranean diet focuses on whole, minimally processed foods, and while smoked salmon is cured, it’s still a fantastic source of omega-3s. We keep it balanced in this recipe by using just a small amount for flavor and rinsing it quickly to reduce some of the sodium.
2.Can you eat bread on the Mediterranean diet?
Absolutely! This is one of the best parts. The key is to choose whole-grain breads, like the baguette in this recipe. Whole grains provide essential fiber and nutrients that are a core part of this healthy eating pattern. So yes, you can and should enjoy good bread!
3.What is a good heart healthy appetizer?
You’re looking at it! This appetizer is an ideal choice. It’s built on ingredients celebrated for their heart-protective benefits, like the healthy fats in salmon, avocado, and olive oil. It’s one of the best Mediterranean diet snacks you can make.
Okay, are you ready to see just how easy it is to bring these beautiful bites to life?
Herbed Avocado & Salmon Crostini with Lemon Zest
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Medium bowl
- Fork or potato masher
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 20 thin slices -inch from a whole-grain baguette (low-sodium variety preferred)
- 2 ripe avocados halved and pitted
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill plus extra sprigs for garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon packed lemon zest
- teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 ounces cold-smoked salmon
- 2 teaspoons high-quality extra virgin olive oil
- Optional Garnish: 1 tablespoon capers rinsed and drained
Instructions
- Toast the Foundation: Preheat your oven's broiler to high. Arrange the 20 whole-grain baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Broil for 1-2 minutes per side, watching carefully, until they are golden brown and crisp. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool completely.
- Prepare the Salmon: Place the smoked salmon slices in a fine-mesh sieve. Gently rinse under cold running water for 10-15 seconds. Carefully pat the slices completely dry with paper towels. Cut the salmon into 20 bite-sized pieces.
- Create the Avocado Schmear: Scoop the flesh of the two avocados into a medium bowl. Add the fresh lemon juice and mash with a fork to your desired consistency, leaving some small chunks for texture.
- Infuse the Flavor: Fold the chopped fresh dill, lemon zest, and freshly cracked black pepper into the mashed avocado. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.
- Assemble the Crostini: Spread a layer of the herbed avocado mixture evenly over each toasted baguette slice, covering it from edge to edge.
- Adorn and Finish: Top each avocado-covered crostini with one piece of the prepared smoked salmon. If using, sprinkle a few rinsed capers over the toasts. Arrange the finished crostini on a serving platter. Just before serving, drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over all the crostini and garnish with fresh dill sprigs.
Notes
- The Salmon Rinse: Rinsing the smoked salmon is a simple but important technique to reduce its surface salt content, making for a more balanced bite.
- Bread Choice: The fiber and texture of a good quality whole-grain baguette make a wonderful base. Look for a low-sodium option when possible.
- Serve Immediately: For the best color and texture, assemble these crostini just before serving, as the avocado is best when freshly prepared.
Nutrition Information
Per serving (2 crostini)- Calories: 97 kcal
- Total Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Sodium: 166 mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 9 g
- Dietary Fiber: 2.5 g
- Total Sugars: <1 g (0 g Added Sugar)
- Protein: 3 g
Enjoying the Good Life
This recipe is more than just food; it’s a taste of a lifestyle that’s about savoring fresh, delicious meals that make you feel amazing from the inside out. I know this will become your new go-to Mediterranean salmon appetizer for everything from quiet nights in to lively parties with friends.
Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think in the comments below!
