Tomato Basil Avocado Toast

Tomato Basil Avocado Toast has become a beloved staple in our household. It started as a quick, healthy breakfast option, but it quickly evolved into a go-to for light lunches and even satisfying snacks. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors are just irresistible, and the combination of creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil is simply divine. Even my kids, who can be picky eaters, eagerly devour this toast, making it a winner on all fronts. It’s a testament to how simple, wholesome ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious and nourishing.

Ingredients

• Ripe Avocados: (2-3 medium avocados) – The heart of this toast, providing creamy texture, healthy fats, and a rich flavor base. Choose avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure for optimal ripeness.
• Fresh Tomatoes: (2-3 medium tomatoes or 1 pint cherry tomatoes) – Bringing juicy sweetness and a touch of acidity to balance the richness of the avocado. Opt for ripe, flavorful tomatoes like Roma, heirloom, or cherry tomatoes for the best taste.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: (1/4 cup packed) – Adding aromatic, peppery notes and a burst of freshness that elevates the entire dish. Use fresh basil for the most vibrant flavor.
• Good Quality Bread: (4-6 slices) – The foundation of the toast. Choose your favorite type, such as whole wheat, sourdough, multigrain, or artisan bread. Slices should be sturdy enough to hold the toppings.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: (2 tablespoons) – Enhancing the flavors and adding healthy fats. Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste and nutritional benefits.
• Lemon Juice or Balsamic Glaze: (1 tablespoon lemon juice or balsamic glaze) – Providing a bright, tangy counterpoint to the richness of the avocado and adding depth of flavor. Fresh lemon juice or a good quality balsamic glaze works wonderfully.
• Garlic Clove (optional): (1 clove) – Adding a subtle pungent note and enhancing the savory flavor profile. A small clove, minced or rubbed on the toast, is enough.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional): (Pinch) – Adding a touch of heat for those who like a little spice. Just a pinch goes a long way.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: (To taste) – Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients. Use sea salt or kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for the best taste.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Wash the tomatoes thoroughly. If using larger tomatoes, dice them into small cubes. If using cherry tomatoes, halve or quarter them. Place the diced or halved tomatoes in a bowl.
2. Prepare the Basil: Wash the fresh basil leaves and pat them dry. Stack the basil leaves and roll them up tightly like a cigar. Thinly slice the rolled basil leaves crosswise to create chiffonade. Add the chiffonade basil to the bowl with the tomatoes.
3. Season the Tomato Basil Mixture: Drizzle about half of the olive oil (1 tablespoon) over the tomatoes and basil. Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of balsamic glaze (about ½ tablespoon). Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Gently toss everything together and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Prepare the Avocado: Slice the avocados in half lengthwise, remove the pits, and scoop out the flesh into a separate bowl. Mash the avocado with a fork to your desired consistency. Some people prefer a completely smooth avocado spread, while others like it slightly chunky.
5. Season the Avocado: Drizzle the remaining olive oil (1 tablespoon) over the mashed avocado. Add the remaining lemon juice or balsamic glaze (½ tablespoon). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If using, mince the garlic clove and add it to the avocado mash. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes at this stage if you desire a little heat. Mix everything together until well combined.
6. Toast the Bread: Toast the bread slices to your preferred level of crispness. You can use a toaster, toaster oven, or a skillet over medium heat. If using a skillet, you can lightly brush the bread with olive oil before toasting for extra flavor and crispness.
7. Assemble the Toast: Once the bread is toasted, spread a generous layer of the seasoned avocado mash evenly onto each slice.
8. Top with Tomato Basil Mixture: Spoon the prepared tomato basil mixture generously over the avocado spread on each toast slice. Make sure to distribute the tomatoes and basil evenly.
9. Garnish and Serve: For an extra touch, you can garnish the toast with a few fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh and flavorful Tomato Basil Avocado Toast.

Nutrition Facts

(Per serving, approximate values, based on 1 slice of toast with 1/4 avocado, 1/2 tomato, and basil, using whole wheat bread)

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: Approximately 250-350 kcal (depending on bread type and avocado size)
• Fat: 15-25g

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For accurate nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with specific ingredient details.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5-7 minutes (for toasting bread)
• Total Time: 15-22 minutes

(This Tomato Basil Avocado Toast is incredibly quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy mornings, quick lunches, or a light and healthy snack.)

How to Serve

This versatile Tomato Basil Avocado Toast can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a nutritious and energizing Tomato Basil Avocado Toast alongside a side of fresh fruit or a yogurt parfait.
• Lunch: Make it a satisfying and light lunch by pairing it with a simple green salad, a cup of soup (like tomato soup or gazpacho), or a side of quinoa salad.
• Snack: Enjoy a slice of Tomato Basil Avocado Toast as a healthy and flavorful afternoon snack to keep you energized between meals.
• Appetizer: Cut the toast into smaller squares or triangles to serve as elegant and flavorful appetizers for gatherings or parties.
• Light Dinner: Serve two slices of Tomato Basil Avocado Toast with a larger salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying light dinner.
• Brunch: Include Tomato Basil Avocado Toast as part of a brunch spread alongside other brunch favorites like eggs, pancakes, and fresh juices.
• Add a Protein Boost: For a more substantial meal, consider adding a poached or fried egg on top of the toast for extra protein. You can also add chickpeas or white beans for a plant-based protein boost.
• Pair with Drinks: Enjoy it with a refreshing glass of iced tea, lemonade, sparkling water, or a light white wine.

Additional Tips

Choose Ripe Avocados:
The foundation of an exceptional avocado toast lies in the quality of the avocados you select. Opt for avocados that are perfectly ripe to achieve that creamy, buttery texture that is the hallmark of great avocado toast. When selecting avocados, gently squeeze them in the palm of your hand; they should yield slightly under pressure, indicating ripeness. Avoid avocados that feel too hard, as they will not only be difficult to mash but will also lack the rich flavor that comes from ripeness. Conversely, avocados that are overly soft or have dark spots may be overripe and could taste bitter or have an unpleasant texture. If you’re buying avocados in advance, choose those that are slightly underripe; you can leave them at room temperature to ripen and check them daily for doneness.

Use Quality Bread:
The bread you choose is just as important as the avocado itself, as it serves as the canvas for your toppings. Selecting a high-quality bread can significantly enhance your avocado toast experience. Whole grain or whole wheat bread adds fiber and a nutty flavor, making it a nutritious option. Sourdough, with its unique tang and chewy texture, brings a delightful contrast to the smooth avocado. Multigrain bread, packed with seeds and grains, provides added texture and nutritional benefits. For a more gourmet touch, consider using artisan bread from a local bakery, which can offer unique flavors and textures that elevate your dish. Don’t hesitate to explore options like rye, ciabatta, or focaccia to add a personal twist to your toast.

Toast the Bread Properly:
Achieving the right toast is crucial for the overall texture and flavor of your dish. Avoid the common pitfalls of under-toasting, which can result in a limp bread base, or over-toasting, which can lead to a dry, hard surface. The goal is to achieve a golden brown color that indicates a crisp texture while still retaining some chewiness for balance. Use a toaster, oven, or stovetop skillet to toast your bread, and consider brushing it lightly with olive oil or butter before toasting to enhance the flavor and crispness. Properly toasted bread not only serves as a sturdy base for the toppings but also adds a delicious contrast to the creamy avocado and any additional ingredients you choose to include.

Season Generously:
Seasoning is an essential step that can make or break your avocado toast. While the natural flavor of ripe avocados is delightful on its own, a little seasoning can elevate it to new heights. Start with a generous pinch of salt, which helps to draw out the avocado’s natural flavors, and follow with freshly cracked black pepper for a hint of spice. Don’t hesitate to taste as you go; adjust the seasoning as needed, ensuring that both the avocado mash and any additional toppings, like tomato or basil, are well-seasoned. Remember, the balance of flavors is key; a well-seasoned dish will leave a lasting impression.

Add a Garlic Rub:
Elevate the flavor profile of your avocado toast by adding a raw garlic rub to the toasted bread. Simply cut a garlic clove in half and gently rub the cut side over the surface of the hot, toasted bread. This technique infuses the bread with a subtle garlic flavor that complements the creaminess of the avocado and the freshness of other toppings without overpowering them. If you’re a garlic lover, consider using roasted garlic for a sweeter, milder flavor that can add depth to your toast.

Customize with Spices:
Don’t be afraid to get creative with spices! While salt and pepper are essential, adding other spices can bring a unique twist to your avocado mash or the tomato mixture. A pinch of cumin can provide warmth and complexity, while smoked paprika adds a rich, smoky flavor. For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of chili powder or red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick. Experimenting with different spices allows you to tailor the flavor to your personal preferences and can transform a simple dish into a culinary adventure.

Vary the Acid:
Acidity plays a crucial role in balancing the richness of the avocado. While lemon juice and balsamic glaze are classic options, consider branching out. Lime juice offers a zesty freshness that pairs beautifully with the creamy avocado, while red wine vinegar can add a sophisticated tang. For an adventurous twist, try a splash of hot sauce for a spicy zing or even a fruit-infused vinegar for a touch of sweetness. Whichever acid you choose, it’s essential to use it sparingly; a little goes a long way in brightening the overall flavor profile.

Make it Ahead (Partially):
For those busy mornings or when hosting a brunch, preparation is key. You can prepare the tomato basil mixture a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld and develop. However, to maintain the freshness of your avocado and the integrity of the toast, it’s best to mash the avocado and assemble the toast just before serving. To prevent the avocado from browning, consider brushing the cut surfaces with lemon juice and storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for a short time. This way, you can enjoy all the flavors of your avocado toast without compromising on quality or presentation.

By incorporating these additional tips, you can create a truly exceptional avocado toast that not only satisfies your taste buds but also showcases your culinary creativity. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations and flavors to make this dish uniquely yours!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make Tomato Basil Avocado Toast vegan?

A: Yes, absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as it only uses plant-based ingredients. Ensure you are using a vegan bread, as some breads may contain eggs or dairy.

Q2: Can I make Tomato Basil Avocado Toast gluten-free?

A: Yes, easily! Simply use gluten-free bread instead of regular bread. There are many delicious gluten-free bread options available now.

Q3: What is the best type of bread to use for avocado toast?

A: The best bread is really a matter of personal preference. Whole wheat, sourdough, multigrain, and artisan breads are all excellent choices. Choose a bread that is sturdy enough to hold the toppings and that you enjoy the taste and texture of.

Q4: How do I know if my avocado is ripe enough?

A: Gently press the avocado near the stem end. If it yields slightly to gentle pressure, it is ripe. If it’s very hard, it needs more time to ripen. If it’s mushy, it might be overripe.

Q5: Can I store leftover Tomato Basil Avocado Toast?

A: It is best to assemble and eat Tomato Basil Avocado Toast immediately for the best flavor and texture. However, you can store the tomato basil mixture separately in the refrigerator for up to a day. Mashed avocado tends to brown quickly, so it is best to mash it fresh just before serving. If you have leftover mashed avocado, you can try to prevent browning by pressing plastic wrap directly onto the surface and storing it in the fridge for a few hours, but it’s still best to use it as soon as possible.

Q6: Can I add other toppings to my Tomato Basil Avocado Toast?

A: Absolutely! Tomato Basil Avocado Toast is a versatile base for many toppings. Consider adding:

• Eggs: Poached, fried, or scrambled eggs for extra protein.
• Cheese: Feta cheese, mozzarella, or goat cheese for added flavor and creaminess (if not vegan).
• Sprouts or Microgreens: For extra freshness and nutrients.
• Everything Bagel Seasoning: For a savory and flavorful sprinkle.
• Hot Sauce: For an extra kick of heat.
• Roasted Vegetables: Like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for a heartier toast.

Q7: Is Tomato Basil Avocado Toast healthy?

A: Yes, it is a very healthy and nutritious meal or snack! It is packed with healthy fats from avocado, fiber from whole wheat bread (if used), vitamins and antioxidants from tomatoes and basil. It is a good source of energy and can be part of a balanced diet.

Q8: Can I make Tomato Basil Avocado Toast ahead of time for a party?

A: While fully assembled toast is best served immediately, you can prep some components ahead of time. You can make the tomato basil mixture a few hours in advance. You can also toast the bread ahead and store it in an airtight container once cooled. Mash the avocado just before serving and assemble the toast right before your guests arrive to ensure the best quality and freshness. For party appetizers, consider serving the avocado and tomato basil mixture as dips with toasted bread slices on the side, allowing guests to assemble their own toast.

Print