Avocado Toast With Egg

My tiny Brooklyn apartment had a kitchen the size of a closet, but morning light would flood through the window and land right on the counter. Thats where I discovered something profound about avocado toast—its never just breakfast, its a mood. I started experimenting during those months when every dollar counted, finding that the right bread and a perfectly ripe avocado could make even a Tuesday feel like a celebration.

Last summer, my sister visited and watched me make this, immediately demanding I teach her my method. We spent a lazy Sunday morning trying every variation imaginable—poached eggs, feta crumbles, everything bagel seasoning—and laughing at how such simple ingredients could feel so luxurious. Now she texts me photos of her avocado toast creations, each one a little different but somehow still carrying that same morning magic.

Ingredients

• 2 slices whole-grain or sourdough bread: The foundation matters—sourdough gives you that tangy chew and whole grain adds nutty depth that complements the creaminess
• 1 ripe avocado: Look for one that yields slightly to gentle pressure but isnt mushy, and dont be afraid to buy a few at different stages of ripeness
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice: This brightens the avocado and prevents browning while adding a subtle zing that cuts through the richness
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt: Flaky salt is even better here—it creates these little salt bursts that make every bite interesting
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Freshly ground makes a difference you can actually taste
• 1/8 teaspoon red chili flakes: Even if you think you dont like heat, try just a pinch—it wakes everything up
• 2 large eggs: Optional but recommended, especially on days when you need something more substantial
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives or cilantro, chopped: Fresh herbs arent just garnish here—they add a pop of color and flavor that makes the dish feel complete
• 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil: A drizzle at the end adds luxury and brings all the flavors together

Instructions

Get your bread perfectly golden:

Toast until its crisp enough to hold the avocado without getting soggy, but not so hard that it hurts your roof of your mouth

Prepare the avocado while the bread toasts:

Cut it in half, remove the pit with a careful whack of your knife, and scoop the flesh into a small bowl

Mash and season:

Add the lemon juice, salt, pepper, and chili flakes, then mash with a fork until mostly smooth but still slightly chunky—texture is what makes this interesting

Cook your eggs if using:

Poached eggs feel elegant, but a fried egg with crispy edges is just as wonderful and easier

Assemble with intention:

Spread the avocado generously over each toast, top with an egg if using, then finish with olive oil and fresh herbs

Save

During a particularly stressful week at work, this became my anchor—something simple and nourishing I could count on when everything else felt uncertain. Theres something meditative about mashing an avocado, watching the toast turn golden, taking those five minutes just for yourself before the day rushes in.

Making It Your Own

Once youve got the basic technique down, start experimenting. I love adding crumbled feta for saltiness, or sliced radishes for crunch and color. Smoked salmon transforms it into something entirely different—more decadent and dinner-worthy. Cherry tomatoes halved and sprinkled with salt add brightness thats perfect on warm days.

Bread Matters More Than You Think

The bread isnt just a vehicle—it carries half the flavor. Sourdough has that tangy complexity that plays beautifully with the creamy avocado. Whole grain adds texture and nuttiness. Even gluten-free options work wonderfully if you choose ones with good structure and flavor.

Timing Is Everything

The difference between good and great avocado toast often comes down to serving it immediately while the bread is still warm and the avocado is at its peak. The contrast of hot toast and cool avocado is pure magic.

• Have all your ingredients ready before you start toasting
• Cut the avocado just before mashing for the freshest flavor
• Season right before serving to keep the texture perfect

Save

Sometimes the simplest recipes are the ones that stick with us, becoming part of our rhythm and our comfort. Heres to many mornings of perfectly golden toast and creamy avocado.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I know when my avocado is ripe?

Gently press the avocado—if it yields slightly to pressure, it's ready. A ripe avocado will have dark, bumpy skin and feel firm but not hard. Avoid avocados with mushy spots or that feel rock hard.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

The avocado mixture browns quickly, so prepare it just before serving. However, you can toast the bread ahead and keep it crisp. Cook eggs fresh for best results, or prep components separately and assemble right before eating.

→ What bread works best?

Sourdough provides excellent flavor and structure, while whole-grain offers nutty notes. Choose sturdy slices that won't get soggy under the creamy topping. Ciabatta or rustic country bread also work beautifully.

→ How can I add more protein without eggs?

Smoked salmon, crumbled feta cheese, or hemp seeds boost protein content. Sliced hard-boiled eggs, cottage cheese, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast also work well. For plant-based options, try white beans or chickpeas mashed into the avocado.

→ What toppings complement this dish?

Fresh herbs like chives, cilantro, or dill add brightness. Cherry tomatoes, radish slices, or microgreens provide crunch. Try crumbled goat cheese, Everything Bagel seasoning, or sliced jalapeños for extra flavor variations.