Avocado Toast with Spinach Salad

This vibrant avocado toast with a perfectly fried egg and refreshing spinach salad makes for an energizing breakfast or light lunch that delivers both nutrition and satisfaction. The creamy avocado provides healthy fats while the runny egg yolk creates a luxurious sauce that elevates simple toast into something special.

I started making this avocado toast during busy weekday mornings when I needed something quick but substantial. What began as a rushed breakfast has become my favorite work-from-home lunch that powers me through afternoon meetings without weighing me down.

Ingredients

• Sourdough or whole grain bread: Perfect vehicle for toppings with a sturdy texture that holds up to the avocado and egg. Choose an artisanal loaf for the best flavor
• Ripe avocado: The star of the show should yield slightly to gentle pressure when squeezed
• Egg: Fresh eggs with bright orange yolks provide the best flavor and color contrast
• Lemon juice: Brightens the avocado and prevents browning
• Feta cheese: Adds a salty tangy element that complements the creamy avocado
• Fresh spinach: Look for crisp dark leaves without any wilting
• Cherry tomatoes: Choose ripe fragrant tomatoes for maximum flavor
• Olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin for the salad dressing
• Balsamic vinegar: Adds sweet acidity to balance the salad

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Toast the Bread:

Take your slice of sourdough or whole grain bread and toast it until it reaches a golden brown color with a crispy exterior but still maintains some chew in the center. This typically takes about 2-3 minutes in a toaster set to medium-high heat.

Prepare the Avocado Spread:

Cut the avocado in half and scoop out half into a small bowl. Add the lemon juice and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mash with a fork until you reach your desired consistency. Some prefer it completely smooth while others enjoy small chunks for texture. Spread this mixture generously onto your toasted bread creating a thick layer that will cushion your egg.

Fry the Perfect Egg:

Heat a small nonstick pan over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil. Once hot crack your egg directly into the pan. Let it cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes until the whites are completely set but the yolk remains soft and runny. If you prefer a more set yolk cook for an additional minute or flip briefly for over easy.

Assemble the Salad:

While the egg cooks toss your fresh spinach with olive oil and balsamic vinegar in a small bowl. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese gently folding everything together.

Plate Your Meal:

Place your avocado toast on a plate and gently transfer the fried egg on top of the avocado layer. Sprinkle with additional feta cheese if desired and a final touch of salt and pepper. Arrange your spinach salad alongside the toast and add the whole cherry tomatoes around the plate for a beautiful presentation.

This dish reminds me of my first apartment after college when I was learning to cook nutritious meals on a budget. I discovered that avocados were not just for guacamole but could transform a simple piece of toast into something restaurant worthy. Now my children request this for weekend brunch claiming my avocado toast is better than the café version that costs four times as much.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing components in advance can make this meal even quicker on busy mornings. Wash and dry spinach at the beginning of the week and store in the refrigerator with a paper towel to absorb moisture. The salad dressing can be mixed and stored in a small jar for up to a week. While the avocado is best mashed fresh you can pre slice bread and store it in the freezer ready to toast.

Seasonal Variations

During summer months add thinly sliced radishes or cucumber to the salad for extra crunch and hydration. In fall try topping the avocado toast with roasted pumpkin seeds or a light sprinkle of cinnamon. Winter versions can include a few pieces of citrus segments in the salad for brightness while spring calls for fresh herbs like chives or microgreens as a garnish.

Nutritional Benefits

This balanced meal provides excellent nutrition to fuel your day. The avocado delivers heart healthy monounsaturated fats that help with nutrient absorption and keeping you satisfied. Eggs contribute complete protein and important nutrients like choline for brain health. The spinach salad adds iron vitamin C and antioxidants making this a powerhouse meal despite its simplicity.

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Serving Suggestions

For a more substantial meal add a cup of vegetable soup on the side during cooler months. When serving for brunch consider offering a variety of toppings so guests can customize their toast including everything bagel seasoning hot sauce or microgreens. A light fruit salad makes the perfect complement for a complete breakfast or brunch spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I keep the avocado from browning?

Add lemon juice to the mashed avocado. The acidity slows oxidation, keeping it fresh and vibrant for longer.

→ What type of bread works best for this dish?

Sourdough or whole-grain bread is ideal for its sturdiness and hearty flavor, but any crusty bread can work.

→ Can I use another topping instead of feta cheese?

Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese, parmesan, or leave it out entirely for a dairy-free option.

→ How can I make the fried egg yolk firmer?

Cook the egg for an additional 1-2 minutes after the whites set, or flip it briefly for an over-easy finish.

→ What can I use instead of spinach for the salad?

You can substitute spinach with arugula, kale, or mixed salad greens for a slightly different flavor and texture.