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Herbed Avocado & Salmon Crostini with Lemon Zest

Elevate your appetizer game with these elegant and heart-healthy crostini. A vibrant, herb-infused avocado spread on a crisp whole-grain base is the perfect stage for delicate smoked salmon, all brought together with a hint of lemon and a final, peppery kiss of extra virgin olive oil.

  • Total Time25 minutes
  • Yield10 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 thin 1/4-inch slices 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
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 4 ounces cold-smoked salmon
  • 2 teaspoons high-quality extra virgin olive oil
  • Optional garnish: 1 tablespoon capers (rinsed and drained)

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Assemble the Crostini: Spread a layer of the herbed avocado mixture evenly over each toasted baguette slice, covering it from edge to edge.
  6. 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 Facts (per serving: 2 crostini): Calories: 110 kcal | Total Fat: 6.2 g (Saturated Fat: 0.9 g) | Sodium: 141 mg | Total Carbs: 10.2 g (Fiber: 2.6 g, Sugars: 0.7 g) | Protein: 4.0 g

These values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients and preparation.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Calories: 110

Find it online: https://dietareas.com/2025/10/09/the-easiest-herbed-mediterranean-salmon-appetizer-avocado-crostini/