This Simple Poached Egg and Avocado Toast is a nourishing, elegant, and incredibly easy breakfast that’s ready in just 10 minutes. With creamy avocado, perfectly poached eggs, and a sprinkle of Parmesan on whole-grain toast, it’s a wholesome way to start your day—or enjoy a quick lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll fall in love with this recipe for its simplicity and sophistication. It requires minimal ingredients, takes less than 10 minutes to prepare, and offers the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and savory flavors. The poached egg adds richness, while the avocado provides healthy fats and a velvety texture. It’s a nutritious, satisfying, and restaurant-worthy dish you can easily make at home.

Ingredients

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

2 eggs
2 slices whole grain bread
1/3 avocado (use more or less to taste)
2 tablespoons shaved Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper for topping
Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or basil) for garnish
Quartered heirloom tomatoes, for serving

Directions

1. Bring a medium pot of water to a boil, ensuring there’s enough water to cover the eggs once submerged. Drop the metal rims (outer rings only) of two mason jar lids into the pot so they lay flat on the bottom.
2. Once the water reaches a boil, turn off the heat. Carefully crack one egg into each rim. Cover the pot and allow the eggs to poach for about 5 minutes (4 minutes for soft yolks, 5 or more for firmer ones).
3. While the eggs are cooking, toast the whole-grain bread slices.
4. Smash the avocado onto each toast slice using a fork.
5. When the eggs are ready, use a spatula to lift them out of the water. Gently remove the metal rims and place the eggs on top of the avocado toast.
6. Sprinkle with shaved Parmesan, a pinch of salt, freshly ground pepper, and chopped herbs.
7. Serve immediately with quartered heirloom tomatoes on the side.

Optional Tip: Add a teaspoon of vinegar to the water before boiling to help the eggs hold their shape while poaching.

Servings and timing

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

Variations

• Cheese Swap: Replace Parmesan with feta or goat cheese for a tangy flavor.
• Add Heat: Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce.
• Whole-Grain Alternatives: Try sourdough, rye, or multigrain bread for a twist.
• Extra Veggies: Add sautéed spinach, arugula, or sliced cherry tomatoes on top.
• Lighter Option: Use egg whites instead of whole eggs for a lower-fat version.

Storage/Reheating

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as poached eggs and avocado don’t store well once prepared.

• If you must prepare ahead: Toast the bread and prepare the avocado spread separately, then poach the eggs right before serving.
• Reheating: Poached eggs can be gently reheated in warm water for about 30 seconds, but they’re best made fresh for optimal texture.

FAQs

How do I keep poached eggs from falling apart?

Add a teaspoon of vinegar to the water before boiling—it helps the egg whites stay together.

Can I use store-bought poached eggs?

Freshly poached eggs are recommended for texture and flavor, but you can use pre-poached ones if needed.

What kind of bread works best?

Whole-grain bread offers a hearty, nutty flavor, but sourdough or multigrain also pair beautifully.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the Parmesan or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative.

What herbs complement avocado toast?

Parsley, basil, thyme, or chives all work well to add freshness and aroma.

How can I make this meal more filling?

Add an extra egg or a side of roasted vegetables for a more substantial meal.

Is it possible to make poached eggs without the mason jar lid trick?

Yes, you can poach eggs directly in gently simmering water with vinegar, though the mason jar method helps maintain their shape.

Can I use olive oil instead of avocado?

Avocado provides creaminess, but a drizzle of olive oil can substitute if you’re out of avocado.

How do I know when my eggs are perfectly poached?

Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes—when the whites are set but the yolks remain soft and runny.

Can I add protein to this recipe?

Yes, adding smoked salmon, grilled chicken, or chickpeas makes it a heartier option while keeping it wholesome.

Conclusion

Simple, elegant, and utterly satisfying, this Poached Egg and Avocado Toast is a perfect combination of flavor and nutrition. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or a quick lunch, this easy dish proves that healthy food doesn’t have to be complicated. With its creamy avocado, rich yolk, and crunchy toast, it’s the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary morning into something special.

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