Save My apartmentmate Sarah introduced me to avocado toast during college finals week when we both needed something substantial but quick. The way she mashed that avocado with just the right amount of lemon made it taste like something from a trendy café, not our dorm kitchen.
Last month I made this for my brother who claimed he didnt understand the avocado toast hype. After one bite, he actually asked if I could make it again the next morning. Sometimes the simplest combinations win people over completely.
Ingredients
- 2 slices whole grain bread: The nutty flavor and hearty texture of whole grain holds up beautifully against creamy avocado
- 1 ripe avocado: Give it a gentle squeeze near the stem, it should yield slightly without feeling mushy
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice: This brightens the avocado and prevents browning
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt: Coarse sea salt adds these perfect little bursts of saltness
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: A whisper of heat that balances the richness
Instructions
- Toast your bread:
- Get those slices golden and crispy, whatever your preferred level of doneness happens to be
- Prep the avocado:
- Cut around the pit, twist apart, scoop everything into a small bowl, and add the lemon juice
- Mash and season:
- Use your fork to break everything down, leaving some small chunks for texture, then fold in the salt and pepper
- Assemble:
- Spread that seasoned avocado generously across both slices while the breads still warm
- Add toppings:
- Scatter whatever appeals to you, then serve immediately while that temperature contrast sings
Save This became my go-to Sunday morning ritual after I moved into my first apartment. Something about standing at the counter, eating something this simple and nourishing, made the whole week feel more manageable.
Bread Matters More Than You Think
The bread can make or break this dish. Whole grain adds substance and nuttiness, but sourdough brings tang, while rye offers depth. Whatever you choose, it needs to toast into something with real crunch.
The Garlic Trick
Rubbing a raw garlic clove across the hot toast before the avocado goes on adds this subtle background note. Its not garlicky exactly, just deeper and more complex. My friend showed me this trick and I havent skipped it since.
Topping Combinations That Work
Some toppings transform this from breakfast to something dinner-worthy depending on what you add.
- A poached egg turns it into a complete meal
- Pumpkin seeds add satisfying crunch and healthy fats
- Crumbled feta brings salty tang that cuts through the creaminess
Save The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, but that simplicity makes every ingredient choice matter. Perfect for those mornings when you want something substantial without the fuss.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I keep avocado from browning?
The lemon juice in the mixture helps prevent oxidation. For best results, prepare immediately before serving and consume within a few hours.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Toast and avocado mixture are best prepared fresh. However, you can mash the seasoned avocado up to 1 hour in advance and store it tightly covered with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface.
- → What bread works best for this?
Hearty whole grain, sourdough, or rye bread provide excellent texture and structure. Choose slices thick enough to support generous toppings without becoming soggy.
- → How can I add more protein?
Top with a poached or fried egg, add crumbled feta cheese, or serve alongside smoked salmon. Hemp seeds or chia seeds also provide plant-based protein boosters.
- → Is this suitable for meal prep?
Components can be prepped separately. Store mashed avocado with lemon juice in an airtight container and toast bread fresh when ready to eat for optimal texture.