Crostini with Salmon and Grana Padano DOP Cream

Name: Crostini with Salmon and Grana Padano DOP Cream
Cuisine: Italian

Difficulty

Facile

Preparation

30 min.

Servings for

6 per.

Crostini with salmon, marinated orange, wild fennel, and Grana Padano DOP are an elegant and fresh starter, perfect for impressing guests in just a few minutes. The smoked salmon pairs with the sweetness and acidity of the marinated orange, while the Grana Padano DOP cream adds creaminess and a savoury touch. Ideal for aperitifs, brunch, or buffets, these crostini combine flavour and sophistication in a single bite.

Ingredients

1 loaf of cereal rye bread
100g Grana Padano DOP
100ml milk
100g smoked salmon
1 orange
Wild fennel, to taste
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO), to taste
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste

Preparation

STEP 1

Slice the rye bread into pieces about 1-1.5cm thick and toast them on a grill or in the oven until you have golden and crispy crostini on both sides. This will give structure and a light, toasted flavour to the base of your crostini.

STEP 2

Heat the milk in a saucepan over a low heat and add the grated Grana Padano DOP, whisking until you obtain a smooth, lump-free cream. Season with pepper and allow it to cool slightly, so that the cream remains soft but spreadable on the crostini.

STEP 3

Segment the orange, removing the peel and all white pith. In a bowl, season the segments with a drizzle of EVOO, salt, pepper, and a few needles of fresh wild fennel. Allow it to marinate for a few minutes so that the aromas blend well.

STEP 4

Spread a generous layer of Grana Padano DOP cream onto the toasted crostini, place a slice of smoked salmon on top, and finish with the marinated orange segments. Decorate with a little fresh wild fennel and serve immediately to maintain crispness and freshness.

Tips and Suggestions

Which herbs pair with smoked salmon?

The aromatic herbs that best complement smoked salmon are: dill, wild fennel, chives, parsley, and basil. They add freshness and aroma without overpowering the delicate flavour of the fish.

Which bread should be used for crostini?

A rustic bread is ideal for crostini, such as rye, wholemeal, or cereal bread, as it holds up well to toasting and supports the weight of the toppings. Baguettes or crusty homemade bread can also work well.

What can be paired with salmon crostini?

Salmon crostini pair perfectly with sparkling wines like Prosecco or Champagne, crisp white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, and also with light sides of green salads or vegetable crudités.