Avocado Toast with Lemon & Egg

This vibrant avocado toast recipe combines creamy avocado with bright lemon and a perfectly poached egg for a nourishing breakfast that comes together in just 15 minutes. The contrast of the runny yolk against the lemony avocado creates a symphony of flavors that elevates a simple toast into something truly special.

I created this recipe when trying to impress weekend guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Now it has become my go to elevated breakfast that feels restaurant worthy but takes minimal effort.

Ingredients

• Whole grain or sourdough bread: Provides the perfect sturdy base for holding all the toppings. Sourdough adds a pleasant tang that complements the creamy avocado.
• Ripe avocado: Should yield slightly to gentle pressure for the creamiest texture. Look for avocados with dark skin that feel heavy for their size.
• Fresh lemon juice and zest: Provide brightness that cuts through the richness. Always use fresh lemons rather than bottled juice for the most vibrant flavor.
• Eggs: Preferably organic and free range for the richest golden yolks and best flavor. Room temperature eggs poach more evenly than cold ones.
• Fresh herbs: Like parsley chives or cilantro add color and freshness. Choose based on your preference but chives pair particularly well with eggs.
• Chili flakes: Optional but highly recommended for a gentle heat that enhances all the other flavors without overwhelming them.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare your toast:

Toast bread slices until golden brown and crisp around the edges but still slightly tender in the center. Good quality bread makes all the difference so choose a hearty artisanal loaf if possible.

Prepare the avocado spread:

Scoop the avocado flesh into a bowl and mash with a fork until mostly smooth but still with some small chunks for texture. Fold in the lemon zest lemon juice salt pepper and olive oil if using. The small amount of olive oil adds a silky richness that makes the spread extra luxurious.

Poach the eggs:

Bring water to a gentle simmer not a rolling boil as this will tear the eggs apart. The water should just show small bubbles forming on the bottom of the pan. Add a splash of vinegar which helps the proteins in the egg whites coagulate faster. Create a gentle whirlpool with a spoon before sliding in the egg to help the whites wrap around the yolk. Poach for exactly 3 minutes for a set white and runny yolk.

Assemble your toast:

Generously spread the avocado mixture onto the toast creating a thick layer that will cradle the poached egg. Use the back of a spoon to create small divots in the avocado mixture which will help hold the egg in place.

Add the finishing touches:

Carefully place a poached egg on each toast taking care not to break the yolk. Sprinkle with sea salt freshly cracked pepper chili flakes and fresh herbs. The contrast of colors textures and flavors makes this simple dish truly special.

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My absolute favorite part of this recipe is the moment when you cut into the poached egg and the golden yolk creates a natural sauce that coats the avocado toast. My husband who previously claimed to dislike avocados became an instant convert after trying this version with the bright lemon notes cutting through the richness.

Perfecting Your Poach

The key to a beautiful poached egg lies in using the freshest eggs possible. As eggs age, the proteins in the whites break down, resulting in those wispy, feathery pieces that spread through the water. A truly fresh egg will have a white that stays compact during poaching. Another pro tip is to crack your egg into a fine mesh strainer before poaching, which allows the watery part of the white to drain away, leaving you with just the thick white that produces a neater poached egg.

Make It Your Own

This avocado toast serves as a wonderful canvas for additional toppings based on your preferences. For added protein, try smoked salmon or prosciutto. For extra vegetables, layer on thinly sliced radishes or microgreens. If you enjoy cheese, crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a pleasant tanginess. For those who enjoy heat, try adding a drizzle of sriracha or hot honey instead of chili flakes. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility.

The Perfect Avocado

Selecting and ripening avocados is something of an art form. If planning ahead, buy firm avocados and allow them to ripen at room temperature. To speed up ripening, place avocados in a paper bag with a banana or apple. Once ripe, store them in the refrigerator to slow further ripening. A perfectly ripe avocado will yield slightly to gentle pressure but should not feel mushy. If you only have hard avocados, you can microwave them for 30 seconds which softens them enough to use in this recipe.

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Common Questions

→ How do I know when an avocado is perfectly ripe?

A perfectly ripe avocado should yield slightly to gentle pressure without feeling mushy. Check under the stem - if it comes away easily and shows green underneath, it's ready to eat. If it's brown, the avocado is overripe.

→ What's the secret to perfectly poached eggs?

For perfect poached eggs, use fresh eggs, simmer (don't boil) the water, add a splash of vinegar, create a gentle vortex, and cook for about 3 minutes. Using a small cup or ramekin to slide the egg into the water helps maintain its shape.

→ Can I prepare any components ahead of time?

The avocado mixture is best made fresh, but you can poach eggs ahead of time. Immediately transfer them to an ice bath, refrigerate for up to 2 days, and reheat in warm (not boiling) water for 1 minute before serving.

→ What bread works best for this dish?

Sturdy breads like sourdough or whole grain work best as they hold up to the toppings without becoming soggy. The slight tanginess of sourdough particularly complements the creamy avocado and zesty lemon.

→ How can I add more protein to this dish?

To boost protein, add smoked salmon, crumbled bacon, feta cheese, or a sprinkle of hemp seeds or toasted pine nuts. For vegetarians, crumbled firm tofu seasoned with turmeric and salt makes a flavorful addition.

→ What are good side dishes to serve with this?

This pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, roasted tomatoes, crispy bacon, a simple green salad, or a smoothie. For brunch, serve alongside roasted potatoes or a light soup for a more substantial meal.