Avocado toast is a super simple, incredibly satisfying meal perfect for any time of day. It’s quick to make, packed with good fats, and surprisingly versatile. If you’re looking for a delicious and easy dish, this is it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Avocado: Choose ripe but firm avocados. No good substitutes here!
- Bread: Sourdough, whole wheat, or any sturdy bread works well. Gluten-free bread is a great option too.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for flavor.
- Lemon/Lime Juice: Brightens the flavor, optional but recommended.
- Toppings: Get creative! Red pepper flakes, everything bagel seasoning, cherry tomatoes, or a fried egg are popular choices.
Ingredients
Main:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 slices of your favorite bread
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Pinch of black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon or lime juice (optional)
Optional Toppings:
- Red pepper flakes
- Everything bagel seasoning
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh herbs (cilantro, parsley, chives), chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 5-7 minutes
- Prep Time: 3-5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes (for toast)
- Servings: 1
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250-350 (varies greatly depending on bread and toppings)
- Tools Needed: Toaster or pan, fork, knife, small bowl (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Bread
Toast your bread to your desired crispness. You can use a toaster or a pan on the stovetop for this. A good, sturdy toast provides the perfect base for your avocado.
2. Mash the Avocado
While your bread toasts, cut the avocado in half and remove the pit. Scoop the flesh into a small bowl. Use a fork to mash the avocado to your preferred consistency – some like it smooth, others a bit chunky.
3. Season the Avocado
Add the salt, pepper, and optional lemon or lime juice to your mashed avocado. Stir everything together gently. The citrus brightens the flavor and helps keep the avocado from browning.
4. Assemble Your Toast
Once your toast is ready, spread the seasoned avocado evenly over each slice. Don’t be shy – pile it on! This is the core of your delicious avocado toast.
5. Add Your Favorite Toppings
Now for the fun part! Sprinkle on any of your desired toppings. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick, or everything bagel seasoning offers a savory crunch. Enjoy your fresh, homemade avocado toast right away!
Storage Instructions
Avocado toast is best enjoyed fresh. Once assembled, the avocado can start to brown quickly due to exposure to air. If you have leftover mashed avocado, store it in an airtight container with a piece of plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to minimize air exposure. It will keep for up to 1 day, but the color might change slightly. Reheating toast with avocado on it isn’t recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I choose a ripe avocado?
A: A ripe avocado will feel slightly soft when gently squeezed, but not mushy.
Q: Can I prepare the avocado ahead of time?
A: You can mash and season avocado a few hours ahead, but adding plenty of lemon or lime juice and covering it tightly helps prevent browning.
Q: What if my avocado isn’t ripe enough?
A: Place unripe avocados in a brown paper bag with a banana or apple; they release ethylene gas which speeds up ripening.
Q: What are some other topping ideas for avocado toast?
A: Consider a drizzle of good olive oil, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, a soft-boiled egg, or even a few slices of radish for crunch.
Q: Is avocado toast healthy?
A: Yes, avocado toast can be very healthy! Avocados are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins, and whole-grain bread adds beneficial complex carbohydrates.
Q: Can I use frozen avocado?
A: While possible, frozen avocado tends to be much softer and watery once thawed, making it less ideal for a firm, spreadable avocado toast. Fresh is best.