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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Assemble the Toast: Once the bread is toasted, spread a generous layer of the seasoned avocado mash evenly onto each slice.
- 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.
- 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
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 25g