A Flavor-Packed Toast Recipe for Brunch, Snack, or a Light Meal
Ready to Elevate Your Toast Game?
If you’re looking for a hearty, wholesome, and flavor-loaded twist on avocado toast, this Avocado Garlicky Mushroom Toast will be your new favorite. Whether you’re making a quick breakfast, a light lunch, or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers a satisfying blend of creamy avocado and savory garlicky mushrooms on crisp, toasted bread.
Let’s dive into this rich, herb-infused dish that’s vegan, quick to prepare, and undeniably delicious.
Introduction
Avocado toast has become a staple on breakfast menus and home tables across the country, and it’s easy to see why. It’s quick, nutrient-rich, and the perfect blank canvas for a variety of toppings. But if you’re craving something with more depth and a gourmet feel, adding garlicky sautéed mushrooms is the perfect upgrade.
This Avocado Garlicky Mushroom Toast combines healthy fats, plant-based protein, and earthy, aromatic herbs for a dish that’s as comforting as it is nutritious. With just a few simple ingredients, you can turn ordinary toast into a culinary masterpiece.
Tools Needed, Servings, and Cooking Time
Tools Needed:
- Nonstick skillet or frying pan
- Cutting board and knife
- Garlic press or fine grater
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Toaster or oven for toasting bread
- Fork (for mashing avocado)
- Small bowl
Serves: 2 people
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the Mushrooms:
- 250–300 grams (approximately 9–10 oz) chestnut mushrooms, sliced
- 1 clove garlic, crushed or finely minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- A generous splash of tamari sauce (or soy sauce)
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- Sprinkle of black pepper
For the Toast Base:
- 2 large slices of your favorite bread (sourdough, whole grain, or gluten-free)
- 1 ripe avocado
- Salt, to taste
- Optional toppings: chili flakes, lemon juice, microgreens, or hemp seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Slice the Mushrooms
Start by cleaning the chestnut mushrooms with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Slice them evenly so they cook at the same rate.
Crush or mince the garlic clove finely and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Mushrooms
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the crushed garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (but not browned).
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Stir occasionally and let them cook for 5–7 minutes, until they start to brown and release their moisture.
Step 3: Season the Mushrooms
Once the mushrooms begin to turn golden, add a generous splash of tamari sauce. This deepens the flavor and adds a rich umami taste.
Sprinkle in the fresh thyme leaves and black pepper. Stir well to combine and cook for another 1–2 minutes until the mushrooms are fully glazed and aromatic. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Toast the Bread
While the mushrooms are cooking, toast your bread slices in a toaster or oven until they are crisp and golden. You can lightly butter the slices or drizzle with olive oil before toasting for extra flavor, but this is optional.
Step 5: Prepare the Avocado
Scoop out the avocado flesh into a small bowl. Mash it with a fork until smooth but still slightly chunky. Season with a pinch of salt, and if desired, a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavor and prevent browning.
Step 6: Assemble the Toast
Spread a thick layer of mashed avocado onto each slice of toasted bread.
Top generously with the sautéed garlicky mushrooms, making sure to include any leftover thyme or garlic bits from the pan for maximum flavor.
Step 7: Add Final Touches (Optional)
Sprinkle with extra black pepper, a pinch of red chili flakes for heat, or fresh microgreens for crunch. For a nutritional boost, a sprinkle of hemp or chia seeds works well too.
Recommendations for Recipe Success
- Use Ripe Avocados: The best avocado toast starts with perfectly ripe avocados—look for ones that yield slightly to pressure without feeling mushy.
- Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly. Sauté just until fragrant to avoid bitterness.
- Choose Hearty Bread: Go for rustic, dense bread like sourdough or multigrain that can hold the weight of the toppings.
- Fresh Thyme Matters: Using fresh herbs like thyme adds fragrance and a layer of complexity you won’t get from dried herbs.
- Serve Immediately: This toast is best enjoyed fresh when the mushrooms are warm, and the bread is still crisp.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a standalone breakfast or brunch item
- Pair with a poached egg for added protein
- Serve with a fresh side salad or bowl of soup for a light lunch
- Turn it into an open-faced sandwich with vegan cheese or roasted tomatoes
Storage Tips:
- Mushroom Mixture: You can store the sautéed mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan before serving.
- Avocado Mixture: Best mashed fresh, but if needed, store in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly against the surface to prevent browning for 1 day.
- Fully Assembled Toast: Not ideal for storage as the bread will become soggy. Assemble just before eating for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
Yes! The recipe is naturally vegan if you use plant-based bread. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free bread and ensure your tamari sauce is certified gluten-free.
2. What other mushrooms can I use?
Cremini, button, portobello, or shiitake mushrooms all work beautifully in this recipe. Just ensure they are sliced evenly for consistent cooking.
3. Can I add protein to make it more filling?
Definitely. Add a poached egg, tofu scramble, or a scoop of hummus on the side. For non-vegan options, a slice of smoked salmon or soft-boiled egg also works well.
4. How do I prevent the toast from getting soggy?
Toast the bread well and don’t overdo the avocado or mushroom toppings. Serve immediately after assembly to maintain texture.
5. Is there a way to make it spicier?
Yes. Add a pinch of chili flakes, a splash of hot sauce, or even a thin spread of harissa or chili garlic paste for heat.
Conclusion
This Avocado Garlicky Mushroom Toast is the kind of recipe that turns humble ingredients into something extraordinary. With buttery avocado, aromatic garlic, meaty mushrooms, and a kiss of tamari and thyme, each bite delivers a perfect balance of comfort and freshness.
It’s fast, flexible, and totally customizable. Whether you’re serving brunch to friends or making a solo breakfast that feels a little fancy, this dish is a winner.
Now’s the time to try it—grab your skillet and your ripest avocado, and toast your way to something delicious today!
