Avocado on Toast with Fresh Figs and Balsamic Reduction
An elegant yet simple breakfast or snack, this recipe combines the creamy richness of avocado, the sweetness of fresh figs, and the tangy flavor of balsamic reduction. Perfect for a quick morning meal or a mid-afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Avocado | 1 whole, sliced vertically (ripe) |
| Sourdough bread (or your favorite bread) | 4 slices |
| Fresh Figs | 3, quartered and sliced |
| Feta Cheese | 50 grams, crumbled |
| Pumpkin seeds | 1 tablespoon |
| Balsamic Vinegar | 1/4 cup |
| Honey | 2 tablespoons |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | As needed for toasting |
| Basil leaves | A few, for garnish |
Preparation Time:
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 10 minutes
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Balsamic Reduction:
In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the liquid has reduced by half. The result should be a thick, syrupy consistency. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool. -
Toast the Bread:
Drizzle a small amount of olive oil on a grill pan or skillet and heat over medium-high. Add the sourdough slices (or your preferred bread) and toast until golden brown and slightly crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Once done, remove the bread from the pan and set aside. -
Assemble the Toast:
On each slice of toasted bread, layer the sliced avocado. Arrange the quartered and sliced figs evenly over the avocado. Drizzle the cooled balsamic reduction over the top for a tangy contrast. -
Finish the Dish:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and pumpkin seeds over the fig and avocado mixture. Garnish with a few fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added flavor. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Your Avocado on Toast with Fresh Figs and Balsamic Reduction is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it as a nutritious and satisfying breakfast or a delightful tea-time snack.
Allergen Information:
- Dairy: Feta cheese contains dairy, so this dish may not be suitable for those with dairy sensitivities or lactose intolerance.
- Gluten: The recipe uses sourdough bread, which contains gluten. Consider a gluten-free bread option for those with gluten sensitivity.
- Nuts: While the recipe doesn’t contain nuts, be aware that pumpkin seeds, though generally safe, may pose a risk for people with seed allergies.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is entirely vegetarian, as it features plant-based ingredients (aside from the feta cheese).
- Gluten-Free: To make this dish gluten-free, swap out the sourdough bread for a gluten-free alternative.
- Low-Carb Option: For a lower-carb version, try using lettuce wraps or other low-carb bread alternatives.
Tips & Advice:
- Choosing Avocados: Make sure your avocado is ripe. The skin should be slightly darker, and it should yield gently to pressure. If it’s under-ripe, give it a few days at room temperature to ripen.
- Balsamic Reduction: If you’re looking for a quicker option, you can find pre-made balsamic reductions at most grocery stores. However, making it yourself allows you to adjust the sweetness and tang to your taste.
- Customizing the Toppings: Feel free to experiment with other toppings like arugula, walnuts, or a drizzle of olive oil to enhance the flavors further.
- Make it Vegan: Swap the feta cheese with a plant-based alternative to make the recipe vegan-friendly.
Conclusion:
This Avocado on Toast with Fresh Figs and Balsamic Reduction is more than just a mealβit’s a sensory experience. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the sweet figs, tangy balsamic reduction, and salty feta, making every bite a harmonious blend of flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast or a light snack, this dish is an easy yet elegant choice that can be customized to suit various dietary preferences. Enjoy it on busy mornings, or as a refreshing treat to elevate your afternoon tea.
