Seven New Ways to Make Avocado Toast

One glance at Instagram will tell you avocado toast is a huge food trend, and for good reason. Avocados are rich in vitamins, fatty acids, and monounsaturated fat, which helps lower bad cholesterol and the risk of heart disease. But there’s more to a great avocado toast than just adding a fried egg or some tomatoes (although both of those options are equally delicious.)

That’s why I decided to create seven original and unique recipes to mix up your morning. First, a few basics to keep your avocado toast affordable and healthy. Choose bread that has an ample amount of whole grains, such as sprouted grain bread. Keep in mind that each slice of bread requires only half an avocado—great news, since, as any Chipotle fan will tell you, avocados can get pricey (guac is extra, people!).

For toppings, I made sure to stick with what was in season or on sale, like apricots and blueberries. And of course, be sure to remember my main rule: the more fruits and vegetables you can include, the better it will be.

All photos and creations by Asia Bradlee

*Note: For all recipes, begin by mashing avocado to a chunky consistency and spreading it on toast.

1. Avocado Toast with Apricot and Watercress

As a powerhouse vegetable, watercress provides lots of nutrients in very few calories, and it may help improve bone health, lower blood pressure, protect against cancer, and aid in diabetes maintenance. Slices of fresh apricot bring some fiber, additional vitamins, and sweetness to the toast.

Ingredients: 1 piece of whole wheat or sprouted grain toast, 1/2 an avocado, 1 apricot, 1 bag of watercress

Time: 4 minutes

Directions: Slice up one ripe apricot and place on the toast with some fresh sprigs of watercress.

2. Avocado Toast with Lemon Garlic Kale

Kale sautéed with sour lemon juice and flavorful garlic pairs well with creamy avocado. Kale is full of vitamin K, which is important for blood health and also contains large amounts of iron and calcium. Feel free to swap lime for lemon and add additional spices.

Ingredients: 1 piece of whole wheat or sprouted grain toast, 1/2 an avocado, 1 cup kale, 1 tbs olive oil, 1 tsp minced garlic, wedge of lemon

Time: 10 minutes

Directions: Heat olive oil over medium heat and once hot, add the minced garlic. Let the garlic cook until light brown and add the kale. Sauté for about two minutes, then squeeze in the wedge of lemon to taste. Continue to let the kale cook until soft and then place on top of of the avocado toast.

3. Avocado Toast with Blueberry and Feta 

In the spring and summer, blueberries are at their ripest. The antioxidant rich fruit contains a large amount of vitamin C, essential for collagen production and overall skin health, and a good dose of fiber. The blueberries pair nicely with the sharp tang of the feta to make a light snack.

Ingredients: 1 piece of whole wheat or sprouted grain toast, 1/2 an avocado, 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup blueberries, feta cheese

Time: 3 minutes

Directions: Rinse the blueberries and place on the toast along with a sprinkle of feta.

4. Avocado Toast with Turkey Bacon and Basil

With the addition of some turkey bacon, protein makes this avocado toast extra filling. Complementary notes of basil contribute to the flavor while also providing some health benefits.

Ingredients: 1 piece of whole wheat or sprouted grain toast, 1/2 an avocado, 2-3 strips turkey bacon, 4 minced basil leaves

Time: 8 minutes

Directions: Cook turkey bacon for five to seven minutes on medium heat, depending on how crispy you want it. While the bacon cools, wash and mince the fresh basil. Chop the bacon into small pieces and mix with the basil.

5. Avocado Toast with Dried Figs, Crushed Almonds, and Balsamic Reduction

The combination of dried fruits and nuts in this recipe provides sustained energy. Dried figs are high in fiber and provide a natural sugar boost, while the almonds give a healthy dose of vitamin E and contribute a small amount of protein. The balsamic glaze adds a sour kick for a balanced taste. To play with the flavor combination, try using flavored almonds or other nuts and seeds.

Ingredients: 1 piece of whole wheat or sprouted grain toast, 1/2 an avocado, 2 dried figs, 1/4 cup raw or roasted almonds, 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

Time: 10-12 minutes

Directions: Slice dried figs and arrange on the toast. Roughly chop the almonds and sprinkle over the figs. To make the balsamic glaze, pour the balsamic vinegar into a small pot. Turn to medium heat and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and let cook until it reaches a syrup-like consistency. Drizzle over the toast.

6. Avocado Toast with Arugula and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

A layer of sweet sun-dried tomatoes covers a bed of spicy arugula in this veggie-heavy recipe. Arugula contains tons of vitamin K, an important vitamin for bone health, while sun-dried tomatoes are rich in magnesium.

Ingredients: 1 piece of whole wheat or sprouted grain toast, 1/2 an avocado, 1/2 cup arugula, sun-dried tomatoes

Time: 4 minutes

Directions: Place the arugula on top of the avocado, along with a few sun-dried tomatoes.

7. Avocado Toast with Sweet Potato and Black Beans

With a dose of complex carbohydrates from the sweet potatoes and protein from the beans, this combination creates a hearty meal. Sweet potatoes are loaded with the antioxidant beta-carotene, as well as vitamin A for eye health. Black beans provide some protein and fiber to fill you up. Try adding a squeeze of lime for tartness, or some cilantro.

Ingredients: 1 piece of whole wheat or sprouted grain toast, 1/2 an avocado, 1 sweet potato, 1 can black beans, 1 tbs olive oil, seasoning

Time: 50 minutes

Directions: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and slice the sweet potato into small cubes. Coat the cubes with the olive oil, along with any spices you wish to add. Bake on an oven sheet for 30-45 minutes or until crispy. While the potato is baking, drain the can of black beans and rinse well. Once the sweet potato is done, stir in the beans and place the mixture on top of the avocado.