Zesty Cream Cheese & Salmon Crostinis

• 1 fresh baguette (cut into 12, 1-inch slices)

• ½ cup cream cheese, softened

• Zest of ½ lemon

• ¼ tsp garlic powder

• Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste

• ½ tsp dried dill or 1 tsp fresh dill, finely chopped

• 6 slices Traditional smoked salmon (cut in half to make 12 pieces)

• Optional garnish: extra dill, lemon zest, or capers

1. Toast the Baguette

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Slice the baguette into 1-inch rounds and place them on a baking sheet. Toast for 5–7 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Let cool slightly.

2. Make the Zesty Cream Cheese

In a small bowl, mix together softened cream cheese, lemon zest, garlic powder, black pepper, and dill. Adjust seasoning to taste.

3. Assemble the Crostinis

Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture on each toasted baguette slice.

4. Top with Salmon

Place one piece of smoked salmon on top of each crostini.

5. Garnish & Serve

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh dill or a hint of lemon zest. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Tip: These crostinis pair perfectly with sparkling wine or a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc.