As a food enthusiast, I’ve spent countless mornings battling the snooze button, prioritizing toast over some more complex breakfast. That’s when I first encountered the crunchy, creamy delight known as avocado toast at Panera.
There’s just something about this dish that sparks joy. To add to it, pairing it with a steaming cup of rich coffee or a refreshing green smoothie elevates the experience. If you haven’t tried this combo yet, do yourself a favor and indulge.
You will also like the following Breakfast recipes!
What is Panera Avocado Toast?
At its core, Panera’s avocado toast is a simple but elevated breakfast option. It’s an enticing blend of creamy avocado spread over crusty Italian bread, topped with seasonings and other delightful ingredients.
The combination of texture and flavor here is not just tasty; it’s darn right addictive.
The Ingredients
Creating your own version of Panera’s iconic avocado toast at home requires just a handful of fresh ingredients.
- 2 large free-range eggs: Adding protein and richness.
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: For a healthy fat boost.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened: To add creaminess.
- Pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper: To enhance flavor.
- 2 slices crusty Italian bread: The foundation of your toast, it should be crunchy yet soft inside.
- 1 ounce sharp Cheddar cheese, thinly sliced: For that extra zing!
- 1 ounce Swiss cheese, thinly sliced: Adds nutty flavor and smooth texture.
- 1/2 ripe avocado, sliced: The star of the show!
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: A subtle kick that brings everything together.
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves, finely chopped: For herby brightness.
How to Make Panera Avocado Toast?
Before diving into the directions, let me tell you: making avocado toast is easy! It’s all about layering flavors and textures. Follow this guide to create your own delicious version of Panera’s avocado toast.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start with the freshest ingredients you can find. Find a perfectly ripe avocado— it should yield slightly when pressed. If it’s hard, give it a few days to ripen on your countertop.
Step 2: Toast the Bread
Grab your favorite crusty Italian bread and slice it thickly. Apply a bit of softened unsalted butter on both sides for extra flavor. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s warm, add the bread slices. Toast until golden brown on both sides. You’re looking for that perfect crisp without burning.
Step 3: Cook the Eggs
In a separate pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil. Crack the free-range eggs into the pan. Cook to your preference; sunny-side up or over easy works best. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
Step 4: Assemble the Toast
Once the bread is toasted, it’s time for the fun part! Spread the sliced avocado generously across the bread. Use a fork to mash it slightly for ease, but don’t turn it into guacamole!
Step 5: Add Cheese and Eggs
Place the sharp Cheddar and Swiss cheese atop the avocado spread. Next, lay the cooked egg on the cheese. This will allow the cheese to melt slightly into the warm egg.
Step 6: Flavor it Up
Shake on a little more salt and pepper for seasoning. Follow this with a drizzle of Dijon mustard. Lastly, sprinkle the fresh basil leaves over the top. Voila!
Notes
Here are five tips to enhance your avocado toast game:
- Choose Ripe Avocados: Look for slightly soft avocados. If overripe, they may be brown inside.
- Master the Toasting: Don’t rush; medium heat ensures even browning without burning.
- Season the Egg: Season as it cooks for enhanced flavors.
- Switch Up the Bread: Try sourdough or multigrain if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Add More Texture: Toss in toasted seeds or nuts for added crunch.
Storage Tips
Avocado toast is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s what to do:
- Toast Storage: Store leftover toast in an airtight container for up to a day. Re-toast for optimal texture.
- Avocado: Keep any unused avocado in the fridge with a sprinkle of lemon juice to slow browning.
- Eggs: Cooked eggs can stay in the fridge for up to three days.
Serving Suggestions
Here are five ideas to pair with your avocado toast to make breakfast even better:
- Fruit Salad: A mix of berries, melon, and banana balances the savory flavors. Sweetness from fruit contrasts beautifully.
- Green Smoothie: Spinach, banana, and yogurt create a refreshing sidekick. It’s energizing and nutrient-packed.
- Smoked Salmon: Elevate your toast with some thinly sliced smoked salmon. It adds protein and a delightful taste.
- Pickled Red Onions: This crunchy addition introduces a tangy bite that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Crispy Bacon: For the meat lovers, a few slices of crispy bacon add indulgence and extra flavor.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Panera Avocado Toast?
Feeling creative? Here are five substitutes that can shake up your toast:
- Hummus Instead of Avocado: For a nutritious twist, swap in hummus, offering a creamy texture with a nutty flavor.
- Whipped Feta: If you’re a cheese lover, whipped feta brings a tangy creaminess, perfect for spreading.
- Sauerkraut: For a gut-friendly option, sauerkraut packs a punch of flavor and probiotics.
- Cottage Cheese: This offers a lighter alternative. It’s high in protein and pairs well with herbs.
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes: For a sweet-savory combo, mashed sweet potatoes lend a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
Equipment
- skillet
Ingredients
- 2 large free-range eggs
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter softened
- Pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 slices crusty Italian bread
- 1 ounce sharp Cheddar cheese thinly sliced
- 1 ounce Swiss cheese thinly sliced
- 1/2 ripe avocado sliced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard new addition for a tangy kick
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves finely chopped (new addition for a herbaceous flavor)
Instructions
- Before diving into the directions, let me tell you: making avocado toast is easy! It’s all about layering flavors and textures. Follow this guide to create your own delicious version of Panera’s avocado toast.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Start with the freshest ingredients you can find. Find a perfectly ripe avocado— it should yield slightly when pressed. If it’s hard, give it a few days to ripen on your countertop.
Step 2: Toast the Bread
- Grab your favorite crusty Italian bread and slice it thickly. Apply a bit of softened unsalted butter on both sides for extra flavor. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s warm, add the bread slices. Toast until golden brown on both sides. You’re looking for that perfect crisp without burning.
Step 3: Cook the Eggs
- In a separate pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil. Crack the free-range eggs into the pan. Cook to your preference; sunny-side up or over easy works best. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
Step 4: Assemble the Toast
- Once the bread is toasted, it’s time for the fun part! Spread the sliced avocado generously across the bread. Use a fork to mash it slightly for ease, but don’t turn it into guacamole!
Step 5: Add Cheese and Eggs
- Place the sharp Cheddar and Swiss cheese atop the avocado spread. Next, lay the cooked egg on the cheese. This will allow the cheese to melt slightly into the warm egg.
Step 6: Flavor it Up
- Shake on a little more salt and pepper for seasoning. Follow this with a drizzle of Dijon mustard. Lastly, sprinkle the fresh basil leaves over the top. Voila!
Notes
- Choose Ripe Avocados: Look for slightly soft avocados. If overripe, they may be brown inside.
- Master the Toasting: Don’t rush; medium heat ensures even browning without burning.
- Season the Egg: Season as it cooks for enhanced flavors.
- Switch Up the Bread: Try sourdough or multigrain if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Add More Texture: Toss in toasted seeds or nuts for added crunch.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I make vegan avocado toast?
Simply omit the eggs and cheese! You can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or sprinkle on some hemp seeds for protein.
2. Can I prepare avocado toast in advance?
While it’s best fresh, you can prep all components ahead. Store the avocado separately to prevent browning, and assemble just before serving.
3. Why does my avocado brown quickly?
Avocados oxidize when exposed to air. A splash of lemon juice and storing cut pieces in an airtight container can help slow this process!
4. What types of bread work best for avocado toast?
Any bread that gives a nice crunch and has good structure works. Sourdough, whole wheat, or a seeded multigrain can all shine here.
5. How do I prevent the toast from getting soggy?
It’s essential to toast the bread well. Using denser breads and spreading the avocado just before serving helps, too.
Conclusion
Panera avocado toast is more than just a trendy breakfast; it’s a delightful union of flavors and textures. This dish is simple to make and fun to customize. I encourage you to give it a try. Your taste buds will thank you, and I promise it will become a go-to breakfast option.
Not to mention, you get to enjoy the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch. So grab your ingredients and start toasting!