Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Sautéing · Storage: Store mushroom mixture in fridge for up to 2 days.
Quick Answer
For a quick yet impressive dish, sauté mushrooms with garlic, mash ripe avocados with lemon juice, and top toasted bread with the mixture.
Living in vibrant New York City, I often find myself on the lookout for quick yet satisfying meals that can carry me through the hustle and bustle of urban life. With Thanksgiving and Christmas around the corner, I long for recipes that are not only delicious but can also impress guests during festive gatherings. Recently, I stumbled upon a gem of a recipe: Garlic Mushroom Avocado Toast. It's all about that deep umami flavor mingling with the creamy avocado, and let me tell you, it's become one of my favorite go-to breakfasts and appetizers!
A Flavorful Addition to Your Holiday Table
This Garlic Mushroom Avocado Toast is not just a breakfast staple; it's a great appetizer to serve at holiday gatherings. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it pairs perfectly with holiday cheer and companionship.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare, perfect for busy mornings or last-minute appetizers.
- Combines creamy avocado with umami-rich garlic mushrooms for a flavor explosion.
- Healthy and packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
- Easily customizable with your favorite toppings or herbs.
- Impressive enough to serve guests at festive gatherings.
Ingredients
This simple yet flavorful recipe requires just a handful of high-quality ingredients.
Mushrooms
- 8 ounces of fresh mushrooms (cremini or shiitake recommended)
Butter and Oils
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
Garlic
- 2 cloves of garlic, finely minced
Avocado
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
Bread
- 4 slices of hearty bread (sourdough or whole grain)
Seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh herbs (optional, like parsley or cilantro)
How to Make Garlic Mushroom Avocado Toast (Step-by-Step)
This delightful recipe comes together in just a few simple steps, resulting in a dish that's as visually appealing as it is tasty.
Step 1: Sauté the Mushrooms
Start by cleaning your mushrooms with a damp paper towel, then slice them thin. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. As it begins to foam, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they release their moisture and turn a lovely golden brown. The earthy aroma is truly a feast for the senses!
Step 2: Add the Garlic
Once the mushrooms are perfectly sautéed, toss in the minced garlic and stir. It only takes a minute for the garlic to soften and infuse the dish with its fragrant essence. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Avocado Spread
While the mushrooms relax, halve the ripe avocados and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Add the lemon juice and mash the avocado with a fork until creamy but still slightly chunky. A sprinkle of salt will enhance its natural flavor.
Step 4: Toast the Bread
Toast your slices of bread until golden and crispy. I recommend using the broiler method: place them on a baking sheet and broil for 1-2 minutes per side, watching closely to prevent burning. A good toast should hold up against the moist toppings.
Step 5: Assemble Your Toast
Spread a generous layer of mashed avocado on each slice of toast. Top with the sautéed garlic mushrooms, allowing the warm mushrooms to slightly melt into the avocado. For a touch of color and flavor, sprinkle on some fresh herbs if desired.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the pan can lead to steamed mushrooms instead of a sautéed texture.
- Using unripe avocados will result in a bland and hard spread.
- Not toasting the bread adequately can make it soggy under the toppings.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For added heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top.
- Add a poached egg for a luxurious and protein-rich twist.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and acidity.
Variations
- Swap cremini or shiitake mushrooms for button mushrooms.
- Use different types of bread like rye or gluten-free alternatives.
- Replace lemon juice with lime juice for a different citrus flavor.
How to Serve
- Serve warm as an appetizer at holiday gatherings.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal.
- Enjoy as a hearty breakfast option with a side of fruit.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the mushroom mixture in advance and store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Storage: Keep the mushroom mixture in an airtight container. Do not mash the avocado until ready to serve.
- Reheating: Gently reheat the mushroom mixture in a skillet before assembling the toast.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as mushrooms may lose texture and flavor when frozen.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Perfecting this Garlic Mushroom Avocado Toast taught me that sometimes the simplest combinations yield the most remarkable flavors. Keeping fresh ingredients at the forefront not only makes cooking more enjoyable but also elevates everyday breakfasts into delightful culinary experiences.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 toast
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~300 calories · 7g protein · 40g carbs · 15g fat
Recipe by:
Savory Garlic Mushroom Avocado Toast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by cleaning your mushrooms with a damp paper towel, then slice them thin. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Once the mushrooms are sautéed, add the minced garlic and stir. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat and set aside.
- Halve the ripe avocados and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Add the lemon juice and mash until creamy but slightly chunky. Season with a sprinkle of salt.
- Toast the slices of bread until golden and crispy. You can broil them for 1-2 minutes per side, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Spread a generous layer of mashed avocado on each slice of toast. Top with the sautéed garlic mushrooms and garnish with fresh herbs as desired.
Notes
FAQs
Can I use different types of mushrooms for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cremini and shiitake mushrooms are recommended for their robust flavor, you can experiment with any mushrooms you have on hand, such as button mushrooms or portobellos.
How can I prevent the avocado from browning?
To prevent browning, always add lemon juice to your mashed avocado right after mashing. If you're storing it, keep the pit in the unused portion and cover it tightly with plastic wrap.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Simply replace the unsalted butter with a vegan butter substitute or olive oil, and use plant-based bread to make the entire dish vegan-friendly.
