1. Prepare the Crostini

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Arrange baguette slices on a baking tray and brush each side lightly with olive oil.
• Bake for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
• For extra flavor, rub each crostini with a peeled garlic clove while still warm.

2. Make the Sardine Pâté

• In a mixing bowl, combine sardines, cream cheese or yogurt, olive oil, mustard, capers, lemon juice, and herbs.
• Mash with a fork or blend with an immersion blender until smooth or slightly chunky, based on your texture preference.
• Taste and adjust seasoning with black pepper, more lemon juice, or a pinch of chili flakes for added depth.
• Transfer to a bowl and chill briefly to allow flavors to meld.

3. Assemble the Crostini

• Spread a generous spoonful of sardine pâté on each toasted crostini.
• Garnish with a few extra capers, fresh herbs, lemon zest, or a drizzle of olive oil.
• Serve immediately while crostini are still crisp.