Avocado Toast with Smashed Egg

I stumbled into avocado toast completely by accident during a desperate breakfast moment years ago. My roommate had left behind a perfectly ripe avocado and some decent sourdough, and I thought, why not mash them together? That first bite stopped me in my tracks creamy, bright, and somehow more satisfying than the sum of its parts. Now I cannot imagine my mornings without this ritual.

Last summer, my sister visited and watched me make this with genuine curiosity. She had always thought avocado toast was just another Instagram trend, but when she took that first bite, her eyes went wide. We ended up making three batches that morning, trying different toppings until we found her perfect version with extra chili flakes and a poached egg.

Ingredients

• 2 slices whole-grain or sourdough bread: The sturdy texture holds up beautifully to the creamy avocado topping and provides that essential crunch
• 1 ripe avocado: Should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not feel mushy this is the heart of the dish
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Adds brightness and prevents the avocado from oxidizing too quickly
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances the natural buttery flavor of the avocado
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Provides a subtle warmth that balances the richness
• 1/8 teaspoon red chili flakes: Optional but highly recommended for that perfect kick of heat
• 2 large eggs: Completely optional but they take this from snack to satisfying meal
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives or cilantro: Adds a fresh pop of color and mild onion flavor
• 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil: Drizzled on top for extra luxury and fruity depth

Instructions

Get your bread golden and ready:

Pop those slices in the toaster until they are beautifully browned and audibly crisp, creating the perfect sturdy foundation.

Mash the avocado:

While bread toasts, halve and pit the avocado then scoop the flesh into a bowl and mash it until mostly smooth with satisfying chunks remaining.

Season it perfectly:

Stir in the lemon juice, salt, pepper, and those optional chili flakes until everything is well combined and tasting bright.

Cook your eggs if using:

Fry or poach them to your liking while the bread finishes toasting, ensuring they are ready to crown each slice.

Assemble the magic:

Spread that seasoned avocado generously across your warm toast, right to the edges so every bite is perfect.

Add the finishing touches:

Top each slice with an egg if using, then drizzle with olive oil and scatter those fresh herbs over everything.

Enjoy immediately:

Serve right away while the bread is still warm and crisp, and the avocado is at its creamy best.

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This recipe became my go-to comfort food during a particularly stressful month at work. Something about the ritual of mashing the avocado and watching the eggs cook became meditative, a small moment of calm in chaotic days.

Bread Choices Matter

Sourdough is my absolute favorite here because its tangy flavor and sturdy texture stand up beautifully to the rich avocado. Whole grain works wonderfully too, adding a nutty depth and extra fiber. Just avoid super soft breads that will turn to mush the moment that avocado hits them.

Egg Perfection

A perfectly poached egg with that runny yolk creates the most luxurious sauce when you cut into it. If poaching feels intimidating, a sunny side up egg gives you similar results with less technique. Either way, that warm yolk mingling with cool avocado is absolute magic.

Beyond The Basic Version

Once you have the basic technique down, the variations are endless and exciting. Try smoked salmon instead of eggs for a brunch style version. Add sliced radishes for crunch and a peppery bite. Feta cheese brings a salty tang that complements the buttery avocado perfectly.

• Keep your avocado pit in the remaining mashed portion if storing to prevent browning
• Experiment with everything bagel seasoning for a savory crunch explosion
• A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds sweet acidity that balances the rich flavors

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Whether for a lazy weekend breakfast or a quick weekday lunch, this avocado toast never fails to hit the spot. Simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable just how food should be.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I know when the avocado is ripe?

Gently squeeze the avocado in the palm of your hand. Ripe avocados yield to gentle pressure but don't feel mushy. The skin should be dark green to nearly black. If it's hard, leave it at room temperature for 1-2 days to ripen.

→ What type of bread works best?

Sourdough or whole-grain bread with a sturdy texture holds up well to the creamy avocado topping. Look for bread that's dense enough to support the toppings without becoming soggy. Artisanal loaves with good crust provide excellent texture contrast.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

The avocado mixture can be prepared up to 2 hours ahead and stored in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent browning. Toast the bread and cook eggs just before serving for best texture and temperature.

→ How do I prevent the avocado from browning?

The lemon juice in the mixture helps slow oxidation due to its acidity. For additional protection, store mashed avocado with the pit in the center and plastic wrap touching the surface. Use within 2 hours for optimal appearance and flavor.

→ What variations can I try?

Top with sliced radishes, cherry tomatoes, or crumbled feta for variety. Smoked salmon pairs beautifully with the creamy avocado. For spice lovers, add sriracha or sliced jalapeños. Vegan options include roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms instead of eggs.

→ Should I use fried or poached eggs?

Both methods work wonderfully. Poached eggs create a luxurious sauce when broken open, while fried eggs with crispy edges add textural contrast. Choose based on your preference and cooking comfort level. Cook eggs until whites are fully set but yolks remain runny.