Smoked Salmon & Avocado Toast with Poached Egg

Smoked Salmon & Avocado Toast with Poached Egg is a gourmet yet easy-to-make dish, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light lunch. This dish beautifully combines the rich, smoky flavor of salmon, the creamy texture of mashed avocado, and the silky perfection of a poached egg, all served over crispy toasted bread. Not only is it delicious, but it is also packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making it a nutritious option. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself to a wholesome meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Moreover, it comes together quickly, so you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your home.

Ingredients Needed for Smoked Salmon & Avocado Toast with Poached Egg

the Toast:

• 2 slices of sourdough or whole-grain bread
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ teaspoon extra virgin olive oil

the Poached Egg:

• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 4 cups water

the Toppings:

• 4 ounces smoked salmon
• 1 tablespoon capers
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• ½ teaspoon everything bagel seasoning (optional)
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Smoked Salmon & Avocado Toast with Poached Egg

1: Prepare the Avocado Mash

1. First, cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a bowl.
2. Next, mash the avocado with a fork until it reaches a smooth yet slightly chunky consistency.
3. After that, add lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to enhance the flavor.
4. Finally, drizzle with olive oil and mix everything well. Then, set the mixture aside.

2: Toast the Bread

1. Meanwhile, heat a skillet or toaster and toast the bread slices until golden brown and crispy.
2. Once toasted, remove the bread and let it cool slightly to maintain its crispiness.

3: Poach the Eggs

1. First, fill a medium saucepan with water and bring it to a gentle simmer.
2. Then, add the white vinegar, which helps the egg whites stay together.
3. Now, crack one egg into a small bowl.
4. Carefully swirl the water with a spoon and gently slide the egg into the center.
5. Allow the egg to cook for about 3-4 minutes until the whites are set, but the yolk remains runny.
6. Once done, remove the egg with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel to drain excess water.
7. Finally, repeat the process with the second egg.

4: Assemble the Toast

1. Start by spreading the mashed avocado evenly on each slice of toast.
2. Next, layer the smoked salmon slices over the avocado.
3. Then, add thinly sliced red onions and capers to enhance the texture and taste.
4. After that, carefully place a poached egg on top of each toast.
5. Lastly, sprinkle fresh dill, everything bagel seasoning (if using), and a bit of freshly cracked black pepper.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, add a drizzle of sriracha or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top.
• Extra Protein: For a heartier meal, include a layer of cottage cheese or ricotta before adding the smoked salmon.
• Crunch Factor: To add more texture, try topping your toast with thinly sliced cucumbers or radishes.
• Gluten-Free Option: If you prefer a gluten-free alternative, use gluten-free bread or even a rice cake as the base.

Cooking Note

• Freshness is Key: Always use high-quality smoked salmon for the best flavor.
• Egg Perfection: If you are new to poaching eggs, use the freshest eggs possible and strain them in a fine mesh sieve to remove excess liquid.
• Balancing Flavors: The acidity from the lemon juice helps cut through the richness of the avocado and salmon, so do not skip it.

Serving Suggestions

• For a balanced meal, serve with a side of mixed greens or an arugula salad.
• Pair with fresh fruit or a smoothie to complement the flavors.
• Enjoy alongside a hot cup of coffee or freshly squeezed orange juice.

Helpful Tips

• Always use ripe avocados for the best creamy texture.
• Toast the bread just before assembling to maintain its crispiness.
• Add the poached egg last to prevent it from making the toast soggy.
• If you struggle with poaching eggs, consider using an egg poacher for consistent results.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: ~18g
• Sodium: ~550mg

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-toasting the bread: While crispy bread is great, over-toasting can make it too hard to bite into.
• Not draining the poached egg properly: If you skip this step, excess water can make the toast soggy.
• Skipping the lemon juice: Not only does it prevent the avocado from browning, but it also enhances the overall taste.
• Using old eggs for poaching: Fresh eggs hold their shape better, preventing the whites from spreading too much in the water.

Conclusion

Smoked Salmon & Avocado Toast with Poached Egg is the perfect combination of flavor, texture, and nutrition. The creamy avocado, rich smoked salmon, and silky poached egg come together on a crunchy slice of bread, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Moreover, with numerous variations available, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or even as a light lunch, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use canned salmon instead of smoked salmon?

Yes, although the texture and flavor will be quite different. Smoked salmon provides a rich, savory taste that enhances this dish significantly.

2. How can I store leftovers?

Since this dish is best served fresh, it’s not ideal for storage. However, you can prepare the mashed avocado in advance by adding extra lemon juice to prevent browning. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

3. What bread is best for avocado toast?

Sourdough, whole grain, or rye bread works best as they provide a sturdy base that holds up well against the toppings.

4. Can I make this without eggs?

Absolutely! If you prefer, you can skip the poached egg or replace it with soft-boiled, scrambled, or even fried eggs.

5. How do I make my poached eggs perfect every time?

To achieve the perfect poached egg, use fresh eggs, add vinegar to the water, swirl the water before adding the egg, and poach for about 3-4 minutes for a runny yolk.

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