This Avocado Toast with Poached Egg and Smoked Salmon is a luxurious yet simple breakfast or brunch dish that brings together creamy avocado, smoky salmon, and a perfectly poached egg on toasted bread. It's a balanced meal, packed with healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients, making it the perfect indulgence that’s both nutritious and gourmet.

Avocado Toast with Poached Egg and Smoked Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the ultimate breakfast or brunch treat, combining the creamy texture of avocado with the richness of smoked salmon and the delicate flavor of a perfectly poached egg. The toast is the perfect base, crispy enough to hold all the delicious toppings without becoming soggy. With its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s a dish that feels indulgent but is also nourishing, making it an ideal choice for starting your day or impressing guests with a gourmet brunch.

Ingredients

1 ripe avocado, mashed until creamy
Juice of half a fresh lemon
A pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
1 slice of whole-grain or sourdough bread, toasted to perfection
1 fresh egg, poached for a runny center
2 slices of smoked salmon
Fresh dill or finely chopped chives, for garnish
Optional: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes, for a touch of heat

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Make the Avocado Spread:

In a small bowl, mash the ripe avocado with a fork until creamy. Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon to add a fresh, zesty flavor and to help prevent browning. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Mix well and set the avocado mixture aside.

2. Toast the Bread:

Choose a slice of hearty whole-grain or sourdough bread. Toast it to your preferred crispiness, making sure it’s golden and crunchy enough to support the toppings without becoming soggy.

3. Poach the Egg:

Fill a small saucepan with water and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add a splash of vinegar to help the egg whites set more quickly. Crack the egg into a small bowl to keep the yolk intact, then gently slide the egg into the simmering water. Poach the egg for 3-4 minutes, ensuring the whites are firm and the yolk remains runny. Use a slotted spoon to remove the egg from the water and place it on a paper towel to drain any excess water.

4. Assemble the Toast:

Spread the creamy avocado mixture generously over the toasted bread. Layer the smoked salmon slices evenly over the avocado. Gently place the poached egg on top of the smoked salmon.

5. Garnish and Serve:

Finish by sprinkling fresh dill or finely chopped chives over the dish for a fragrant garnish. For an added kick, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as desired. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 1 serving
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Skip the smoked salmon and add a few slices of tomato or a handful of arugula for extra freshness.
Vegan Option: Replace the poached egg with a vegan-friendly egg substitute or a tofu scramble.
Spicy Kick: Add a bit more red pepper flakes or drizzle some sriracha sauce over the avocado spread for an extra layer of heat.
Cheese Lovers: Top with a sprinkle of feta cheese or goat cheese for a creamy, tangy addition.
Herb Variations: Instead of dill or chives, try fresh basil, parsley, or thyme for different flavor profiles.

Storage/Reheating

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the ingredients like the avocado and poached egg don’t store well once assembled. If you have leftover avocado spread, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. The poached egg and smoked salmon should be used immediately for the best texture and flavor. Reheating the toast itself is possible, but it’s best to toast it fresh for optimal crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of bread for this recipe?

Yes! While whole-grain and sourdough bread are recommended for their hearty texture, you can use any type of bread you prefer, such as multigrain, rye, or gluten-free bread.

2. How do I know when my poached egg is perfectly cooked?

A perfectly poached egg has firm whites with a runny yolk. To achieve this, cook for 3-4 minutes in simmering water. If the yolk is too runny for your taste, cook it a little longer.

3. Can I prepare the avocado spread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the avocado spread a few hours ahead of time. To prevent browning, cover it with plastic wrap directly on the surface of the spread and store it in the fridge.

4. Can I make this dish without the poached egg?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of poached eggs, you can skip it and still enjoy the avocado and smoked salmon combo. Alternatively, you could add scrambled eggs or a fried egg if preferred.

5. Can I make this dish without smoked salmon?

Absolutely! You can swap out the smoked salmon for other protein options like grilled chicken, or even a plant-based alternative like smoked tempeh.

6. What’s the best way to toast my bread?

Toast your bread to your liking in a toaster, or for extra crunch, you can use a grill pan or a broiler to give the bread a nice crispy edge.

7. How do I poach eggs if I’ve never done it before?

To poach eggs, bring a pot of water to a simmer (not a rolling boil). Add a splash of vinegar, crack your egg into a small bowl, and gently slide it into the water. Cook for 3-4 minutes, then remove with a slotted spoon.

8. Can I make this recipe in bulk for a group?

Yes, you can easily multiply the ingredients to make this dish for more servings. Just toast the bread, poach the eggs, and assemble each toast individually.

9. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes, drizzle hot sauce, or add a few slices of fresh chili to the avocado spread for an extra spicy kick.

10. Can I use store-bought guacamole instead of mashing my own avocado?

You can, but fresh mashed avocado gives the best flavor and texture. If using store-bought guacamole, make sure it’s not too seasoned or spicy.

Conclusion

Avocado Toast with Poached Egg and Smoked Salmon is a simple yet luxurious breakfast or brunch dish that’s both delicious and packed with nutrition. It’s easy to make and a great way to start the day, offering the perfect balance of creamy avocado, smoky salmon, and a perfectly poached egg. Whether you’re treating yourself to a gourmet morning or impressing friends with a fancy brunch, this dish is sure to be a hit.