Save I was running late one Tuesday morning, and all I had was half an avocado and some toast. I threw it together without thinking, sprinkled on some everything seasoning I'd been hoarding, and suddenly I wasn't mad about being behind schedule anymore. It tasted better than anything I could've ordered, and I've been making it ever since.
The first time I made this for my roommate, she was skeptical. She thought avocado toast was overrated until she tasted the way the lemon juice brightened everything and the seasoning added that salty, garlicky crunch. Now she asks me to make it on weekends, and I pretend it's a hassle even though it takes five minutes.
Ingredients
- Whole grain or sourdough bread: Go for something sturdy that can hold up to the avocado without getting soggy, and toast it until the edges are golden and crisp.
- Ripe avocado: You want it soft enough to mash easily but not brown inside, so give it a gentle squeeze before you buy it.
- Everything bagel seasoning: This is what makes the whole thing sing, so don't skip it or try to improvise with plain salt.
- Extra-virgin olive oil: Just a drizzle adds richness and helps the seasoning stick to the avocado.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brightens the avocado and keeps it from turning brown if you're not eating it right away.
- Optional eggs, feta, herbs, or red pepper flakes: These turn a quick breakfast into something that feels like brunch.
Instructions
- Toast the bread:
- Drop your slices in the toaster or heat them in a grill pan until they're golden and crispy. You want them firm enough to support the avocado without bending.
- Mash the avocado:
- Halve it, toss the pit, and scoop the flesh into a small bowl. Mash with a fork until it's mostly smooth, then stir in the lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
- Assemble the toast:
- Spread the mashed avocado evenly over each slice of toast, making sure to get it all the way to the edges. Sprinkle generously with everything bagel seasoning.
- Add your toppings:
- If you're adding an egg, feta, herbs, or red pepper flakes, now's the time. Layer them on and press gently so everything sticks.
- Serve immediately:
- Eat it right away while the toast is still warm and crisp. It doesn't keep well once assembled.
Save One Sunday morning I made this for my mom when she visited, and she kept asking what I'd done to make it taste so good. I told her it was just the seasoning, but really it was the fact that I'd finally learned to toast the bread long enough and use ripe avocado. She took a photo of it before eating, which made me laugh because it's just toast.
Choosing Your Bread
I used to grab whatever bread was cheapest, but I learned that sourdough or a hearty whole grain makes a huge difference. The thicker the slice, the better it holds up under all that creamy avocado. If you're gluten-free, look for something dense and sturdy, not the flimsy stuff that crumbles when you look at it.
Making It a Meal
Some mornings I'll fry an egg with a runny yolk and set it right on top, and when you cut into it, the yolk mixes with the avocado and turns into this rich, silky situation. Other times I'll crumble feta over it or add a handful of chopped herbs from the windowsill. It's one of those recipes that works no matter how much effort you feel like putting in.
Storage and Timing
This is best eaten the second you make it, but if you need to prep ahead, mash the avocado and store it in a container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to keep air out. Toast the bread fresh when you're ready to eat.
- Don't assemble it more than a few minutes before eating or the toast gets soggy.
- If the avocado does turn brown on top, just scrape off that layer and the rest is fine.
- Leftover mashed avocado keeps in the fridge for about a day if you add extra lemon juice.
Save Now when I'm in a rush or just need something simple and satisfying, this is what I reach for. It's proof that the best things don't have to be complicated.
Recipe FAQs
- → What bread works best for avocado toast?
Whole grain or sourdough bread is ideal for its sturdy texture and flavor, though gluten-free options can be used to suit dietary needs.
- → How do I make the avocado spread smooth?
Use a ripe avocado and mash it thoroughly with a fork, adding lemon juice and olive oil to achieve a creamy consistency.
- → What is everything bagel seasoning?
It's a blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried onion, garlic, and salt, providing a crunchy and savory flavor boost.
- → Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, fried, poached, or soft-boiled eggs complement the creamy avocado and add protein for a more filling meal.
- → Any tips for enhancing flavor?
Rubbing the toast with a garlic clove before spreading avocado adds an extra layer of aroma and taste.