1. Prepare the Baguette

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the baguette into 1/4-inch thick pieces. You can use a serrated knife to ensure clean, even cuts. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle the slices with olive oil, ensuring each piece is lightly coated. You can also use a brush to apply the olive oil evenly.

Toast the baguette slices in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp. Keep a close eye on them, as the slices can burn quickly once they start to brown. Remove the toasted baguette from the oven and set it aside to cool while you prepare the spread.

2. Make the Cream Cheese Spread

While the bread is toasting, prepare the cream cheese spread. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and lemon juice. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy.

Add the chopped dill and chives to the mixture, then stir until they are evenly incorporated. Taste the spread and season with salt and pepper to your liking. If you prefer a tangier flavor, you can add a little more lemon juice or some additional fresh herbs.

3. Assemble the Crostini

Once the baguette slices have cooled slightly, it’s time to assemble the crostini. Spread a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture onto each toasted baguette slice. Be sure to cover the entire surface of the bread, creating a nice base for the smoked salmon.

Next, carefully place a slice of smoked salmon on top of each crostini. You can fold or roll the salmon for a more visually appealing presentation. If you have smaller pieces of salmon, you can layer them slightly to cover the bread.

4. Garnish the Crostini

Once the smoked salmon is placed, it’s time to garnish the crostini. Add a small dollop of capers on top of each bite for a salty, briny contrast to the rich cream cheese and salmon. If desired, add extra herbs like more fresh dill or parsley for color and flavor. A few lemon wedges on the serving platter will provide a refreshing burst of citrus to complement the smoky richness of the salmon.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Your Smoked Salmon Crostini is now ready to serve! Arrange them on a platter and serve immediately. These crostini are perfect for a cocktail party, holiday event, or any occasion that calls for a simple yet elegant appetizer.