Pin My roommate in college used to laugh at me for eating avocado toast every single morning, but then she started stealing bites and eventually admitted it was the only thing that got us through finals week without falling apart. There's something about creamysmootcarb that just works, especially when you're running late or need something that feels like a hug but takes five minutes flat.
Last summer my neighbor popped over while I was making this and ended up staying for an hour just talking about how she'd never thought to add lemon juice to her avocado. Sometimes the simplest recipes teach us the best tricks, and now she texts me photos of her avocado toast experiments constantly.
Ingredients
- 2 slices whole grain bread: I've found thicker slices hold the avocado better without getting soggy
- 1 ripe avocado: The avocado should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not feel mushy
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice: This keeps the avocado bright and adds a tangy kick that balances the richness
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt: Flaky salt melts beautifully into the creamy avocado
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Freshly cracked adds a little bite that pre-ground just can't match
Instructions
- Get your bread golden:
- Toast the whole grain bread until it's crisp with a slight golden color, which creates a perfect sturdy base
- Mash the avocado:
- Scoop the avocado flesh into a small bowl and add lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper, mashing until mostly smooth with some small chunks remaining for texture
- Spread generously:
- Divide the seasoned avocado evenly between the two toasted slices, spreading it all the way to the edges
- Finish it off:
- Add your chosen toppings like crumbled feta, tomato slices, seeds, or red pepper flakes and serve right away
Pin This became my go-to when I started working from home and needed something that felt like a real breakfast but didn't require actual cooking before my first coffee. Now it's the one thing my threeyearold actually asks for by name.
Making It Your Own
I love experimenting with different breads and find that sourdough adds a nice tang while rye brings earthiness that pairs beautifully with avocado. Sometimes I'll add everything bagel seasoning or a drizzle of olive oil if I want to feel extra fancy on a Tuesday.
Timing Matters
The difference between good avocado toast and great avocado toast often comes down to eating it immediately while the bread is still warm and crisp. Once it sits too long, that perfect crunch gives way to sadness.
Protein Boosts
Adding an egg transforms this from a snack into a complete meal that powers me through until dinner. A poached egg creates that luxurious sauce when you cut into it, while a fried egg adds crispy edges I can't resist.
- Try smoked salmon instead of tomato for a brunch vibe
- Hemp seeds add protein without changing the flavor much
- A dash of everything bagel seasoning never hurt anyone
Pin Hope this becomes your quick comfort food too, just like it's been mine through so many busy mornings and lazy weekends.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I know when an avocado is ripe?
Gently squeeze the avocado—it should yield slightly to pressure without feeling mushy. The skin should be dark green to nearly black. Avoid avocados with hard spots or that feel overly soft throughout.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Best enjoyed immediately to prevent browning. If needed, store mashed avocado with an extra squeeze of lemon juice in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface for up to 4 hours. Keep toast separate until serving.
- → What other toppings work well?
Try sliced radishes, microgreens, smoked salmon, everything bagel seasoning, hemp seeds, sliced hard-boiled eggs, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, or chives also add brightness.
- → How do I prevent the avocado from turning brown?
The lemon juice in the mixture helps slow oxidation. For extra protection, store leftover mashed avocado with the pit submerged in the mixture or press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to minimize air exposure.
- → Can I use different bread?
Sourdough adds tang, rye brings earthiness, and seeded multigrain offers extra crunch. Choose sturdy bread that holds up well when toasted. Gluten-free options work if they're thick enough to support the topping without falling apart.