Salmon and Anchovy Crostini

I can provide you with a recipe for salmon and anchovy crostini with an Italian twist. Here’s how to prepare them:

Ingredients

• Slices of homemade bread or baguette
• 100 g of smoked salmon
• 50 g of anchovies in oil
• Softened butter to taste
• Lemon juice
• Capers for garnish (optional)
• Chopped chives or fresh dill for garnish (optional)
• Black pepper (optional)

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and, if desired, toast the slices of bread for 5-10 minutes, until they become crispy.
2. Meanwhile, drain the oil-packed anchovies and lightly pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Spread a thin layer of softened butter on the toasted bread slices.
4. Cut the smoked salmon into strips or pieces and arrange them on the buttered bread.
5. Gently lay an anchovy on each slice.
6. Drizzle a few drops of lemon juice over the preparation; this will help balance the flavor of the salmon and anchovies.
7. If desired, add a pinch of freshly ground black pepper on top of the crostini.
8. Garnish each crostino with capers and chopped chives or fresh dill for a touch of color and freshness.

Serve your crostini right away as an aperitif or appetizer, possibly accompanied by a glass of fresh white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Vermentino, which pair well with the bold yet delicate taste of these crostini.

Curiosity

Anchovies are a highly appreciated ingredient in Italian cuisine, especially in the South and Liguria, where they are used to prepare traditional dishes like pasta with anchovies or the famous anchovy sauce. Oil-packed anchovies are a typical Italian preservation that enhances the flavor of this blue fish, making it an excellent culinary ally for multiple preparations.