Pin Last Tuesday morning I stood in my kitchen still wearing pajamas realizing my coffee was brewing but I had absolutely zero motivation to cook anything elaborate. I grabbed an avocado from the counter that had been sitting there for two days practically begging to be used and that impulsive moment became my new five minute breakfast obsession.
My roommate walked in mid mash and looked at me like I had discovered fire but then she tried it and now we fight over who gets the last avocado. We started adding different toppings just to see what would stick and the pumpkin seed version became our hungover Sunday tradition.
Ingredients
- 2 slices whole grain bread: The nutty flavor and hearty texture of whole grain stands up beautifully to the creamy avocado and gives you that satisfying crunch in every bite
- 1 ripe avocado: Look for one that yields slightly to gentle pressure because underripe avocado will not mash properly and overripe turns into an unappealing brown mush
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice: This does double duty by brightening the entire dish and keeping your avocado mixture that vibrant green instead of turning brown
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt: Coarse sea salt gives you those satisfying little crunches that perfectly contrast the smooth avocado
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Freshly cracked pepper brings a subtle heat and aroma that pre ground pepper simply cannot achieve
- Optional toppings: Feta adds tangy creaminess tomato brings fresh acidity pumpkin seeds offer extra crunch and red pepper flakes provide a gentle kick that wakes up your palate
Instructions
- Get your bread crispy:
- Pop those whole grain slices into the toaster until they reach your preferred level of golden brown crunch because nobody wants soggy avocado toast
- Mash the perfect base:
- Cut your avocado in half remove that stubborn pit scoop the flesh into a small bowl and mash it with lemon juice salt and pepper until mostly smooth but still with some texture
- Assemble and crown:
- Spread that seasoned avocado generously over your warm toast then pile on whatever toppings are calling your name and get it into your face immediately
Pin This recipe has become my go to when friends come over for brunch because everyone can customize their own toppings and nobody leaves hungry. Last weekend my cousin who claims to hate avocados tried it with everything and went back for seconds.
Bread Choices That Work
Sourdough brings that tangy complexity that cuts through the rich avocado while rye adds an earthy depth that somehow makes the whole thing feel more substantial. I have also used gluten free bread with surprising success though the texture difference is definitely noticeable.
Making It A Meal
Sometimes toast alone does not cut it especially on those days when you need something more substantial. A poached or fried egg on top transforms this from a light snack into a complete meal that will power you through until dinner.
Flavor Boosters
Try rubbing your toasted bread with a cut garlic clove before adding the avocado for a subtle background note that makes everything taste more sophisticated. Everything bagel seasoning works here too and hot honey drizzled over the top creates this incredible sweet spicy situation.
- Keep your avocados on the counter until ripe then move them to the fridge to pause the ripening process
- Use the back of a fork for mashing not a spoon which presses out all the air and makes the mixture gummy
- Season aggressively because avocado needs salt to really sing and most people under salt it out of fear
Pin Five minutes is all it takes to turn a basic morning into something that feels like a treat. Your future hungry self will thank you for keeping those avocados stocked.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I know when my avocado is ripe?
A ripe avocado yields gently to gentle pressure when squeezed in your palm. The skin should be dark green to nearly black. If it feels hard, it needs more time to ripen on the counter.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Avocado toast is best enjoyed immediately after preparation. The mashed avocado can be stored in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface for up to 1 day, though some browning may occur.
- → What other bread options work well?
Sourdough, rye, multigrain, or gluten-free bread all make excellent bases. Choose a sturdy slice that can support the creamy topping without becoming soggy.
- → How can I add more protein?
Top with a poached or fried egg, add smoked salmon, or sprinkle with hemp hearts and nutritional yeast for a plant-based protein boost.
- → What prevents the avocado from turning brown?
The lemon juice in the mixture helps slow oxidation. For best results, prepare and serve immediately. If storing, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to minimize air exposure.
- → Can I use other citrus instead of lemon?
Lime juice works beautifully and adds a slightly different flavor profile. You could also use a splash of orange juice for subtle sweetness.