Save This vibrant avocado toast with everything bagel seasoning transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy breakfast in just minutes. The creamy avocado creates the perfect canvas for the savory crunch of the seasoning blend, making each bite a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
I first created this avocado toast recipe when looking for quick fuel before morning hikes. What began as a simple breakfast has become my most requested brunch item when friends visit. The everything bagel seasoning elevates it from basic to brilliant.
Ingredients
- 2 slices whole grain or sourdough bread: Choose a hearty artisanal loaf with good structure that can support the toppings without getting soggy.
- 1 ripe avocado: Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure but aren't mushy. The Hass variety works particularly well for its creamy texture.
- 1 tablespoon everything bagel seasoning: This magical blend adds incredible flavor complexity with minimal effort. Store bought works perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and prevents the avocado from browning too quickly. Always use fresh rather than bottled.
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the flavors. Flaky sea salt makes a lovely finishing touch if you have it.
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and depth to the avocado mixture.
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil: Optional but recommended for a silky finish and rich flavor. Use your best quality oil here since the flavor will shine through.
- Optional toppings like eggs cherry tomatoes or microgreens: These transform a simple snack into a complete meal with additional protein and nutrients.
Instructions
- Toast the Bread:
- Place your bread slices in a toaster or under a broiler until they reach your preferred level of golden crispness. For sourdough I find about 3 minutes at medium heat creates the perfect texture with a crunchy exterior but still slightly chewy center. The bread should be sturdy enough to hold toppings without becoming too brittle.
- Prepare the Avocado:
- While your bread toasts slice your avocado lengthwise around the pit. Twist the halves to separate them and carefully remove the pit using a spoon or by gently tapping a knife into it and twisting. Scoop the flesh into a bowl being careful to get every bit of the creamy green goodness.
- Season and Mash:
- Add fresh lemon juice salt and pepper to the avocado. Using a fork mash until you achieve your desired consistency. I prefer mine mostly smooth but with some small chunks remaining for textural interest. The lemon juice not only adds brightness but helps prevent browning.
- Spread on Toast:
- Once your bread has cooled slightly about 30 seconds spread the avocado mixture generously across each slice creating a thick layer from edge to edge. Use the back of a spoon to create some attractive swirls in the surface.
- Add Everything Seasoning:
- Sprinkle the everything bagel seasoning liberally over the avocado layer. Be generous here as the seasoning provides the characteristic flavor profile that makes this dish special. The seeds will stick nicely to the creamy avocado.
- Finish and Garnish:
- Drizzle with a small amount of high quality olive oil which adds richness and helps the flavors bloom. Add any optional toppings you desire such as a perfectly poached egg sliced cherry tomatoes or a handful of peppery microgreens. Serve immediately while the contrast between warm toast and cool avocado is at its peak.
Save The everything bagel seasoning is truly the star ingredient in this simple recipe. I discovered it years ago at a specialty food store and now keep multiple jars on hand at all times. My daughter initially turned her nose up at the idea but now requests avocado toast with extra everything seasoning almost daily as her after school snack.
Perfect Avocado Selection
Choosing the right avocado makes all the difference in this recipe. Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure but aren't mushy. To speed ripening place avocados in a paper bag with a banana or apple. To slow ripening store ripe avocados in the refrigerator for up to three days.
The color of the avocado skin isn't always the best indicator of ripeness. Instead remove the small stem nub at the top. If it comes away easily and reveals green underneath the avocado is perfect. If it's difficult to remove the avocado is underripe and if you see brown underneath it's overripe.
Make Ahead Options
While avocado toast is best enjoyed immediately after preparation there are ways to streamline the process for busy mornings. Toast bread ahead of time and store in an airtight container overnight. The slight staleness actually creates a better texture for holding toppings.
For packed lunches keep components separate. Store mashed avocado with extra lemon juice in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent browning. Pack toasted bread separately along with a small container of everything seasoning and assemble just before eating.
Seasonal Variations
Summer Avocado Toast
Add sliced heirloom tomatoes and fresh basil leaves
Top with grilled corn kernels and a sprinkle of chili powder
Finish with a few drops of balsamic glaze for sweetness
Winter Avocado Toast
Layer with roasted butternut squash cubes and sage
Add pomegranate seeds for brightness and antioxidant boost
Incorporate crumbled bacon for hearty cold weather fuel
Kid Friendly Adaptations
While many children might hesitate at the sight of avocado toast there are easy ways to make this nutritious meal more appealing to younger palates. Try cutting the toast into fun shapes using cookie cutters or arranging toppings into smiley faces.
Reduce the intensity of the everything bagel seasoning by mixing it with a bit of grated parmesan cheese which adds a familiar flavor children often enjoy. You can also try a honey drizzle instead of olive oil for a touch of sweetness that complements the savory elements beautifully.
Save Serve immediately while the contrast between warm toast and cool avocado is at its peak.