Avocado toast has become one of the hottest breakfast and brunch trends in recent years, and for good reason. When done right, the combination of the subtle flavor from perfectly ripe avocado and the crunch of crisp toasted bread creates a simple yet totally crave-worthy dish.
First Watch, a popular breakfast and lunch restaurant chain, has developed their own signature take on avocado toast that has people coming back for more. Today, I’ll share First Watch avocado toast recipe so you can recreate this irresistible snack or light meal at home.
Why You’ll Love This Avocado Toast Recipe
What makes First Watch’s avocado toast so special? A few key details set their recipe apart:
High-Quality Ingredients
The base for any good avocado toast is, of course, fresh avocados and great bread. First Watch uses only ripe Hass avocados and artisan sourdough bread from Sullivan Street Bakery to ensure maximum flavor in every bite.
Thoughtful Seasonings
First Watch keeps things simple by allowing the natural flavors of the dish’s core ingredients to shine through, adding just a touch of olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, and lemon juice to balance and enhance (rather than overwhelm) the creamy avocado and crispy toast.
Textural Variety
You get the best of both worlds with this recipe – the bread provides crunch while the avocado lends creaminess. First Watch is careful not to mash the avocado too much so some chunky texture remains.
How to Make First Watch’s Avocado Toast
Ready to make this incredible avocado toast? Gather just a few basic ingredients and tools, then follow these simple steps:
Ingredients
- Sourdough bread (Sullivan Street Bakery or similar bakery)
- 1 ripe avocado
- Olive oil, Sea salt, Black pepper (optional)
- Lemon juice (optional)
Kitchen Tools
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Toaster
- Spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Toast bread:
Toast the sourdough bread until lightly golden brown and crisp.
Step 2. Cut avocado:
Cut the avocado in half and carefully remove the avocado pit using a technique that keeps your hands away (be cautious; it can be dangerous). With the avocado still in its skin, make lengthwise and widthwise cuts to create small chunks, ensuring it does not cut through the whole skin.
Step 3. Transfer to Bowl:
Gently scoop out the avocado chunks with a spoon and transfer them to a bowl.
Step 4. Smash the avocado:
Lightly smash the avocado chunks with the spoon. Avoid overly sliced or overly mashed avocados. (Sprinkle the avocado with olive oil and season with sea salt and black pepper, optional.)
Step 5. Assemble and serve:
Finally, spread the mashed avocado on the toasted bread and serve. Drizzle with a squeeze of lemon juice (optional).
Notes & Tips
Here are some special tips and tricks for getting the most out of this First Watch copycat avocado toast:
- Let avocados ripen on the counter 1-2 days if too firm. The flesh should give slightly when squeezed.
- Toasting the bread adds crunch and enhances flavor. Be careful not to burn.
- Mash the avocado while still chunky, so it spreads evenly and sticks to the toast.
- Add desired toppings like hot sauce, vegetables, bacon, or herbs. Get creative!
- Serve immediately before the bread loses its crispness.
Recipe Variations
This basic yet tasty avocado toast adapts well to both sweet and savory ingredients. Try these fun variations for breakfast, lunch, snacks or even app starters!
- Eggs – Top with a fried or poached egg for extra protein
- Salmon – Layer smoked salmon for a tasty bruschetta-like toast
- Cheese – Sprinkle crumbled feta, goat cheese or shredded cheddar
- Tomatoes – Fresh cherry tomatoes add pops of color and acidic bite
- Hot Sauce – Mix into mashed avo or drizzle Sriracha on top
- Everything Bagel Seasoning – Sprinkle this savory blend over avo toast
- Fruit – For a sweet toast, top with berries, banana slices or honey
- Veggies – Try radish slices, sautéed kale, roasted peppers or sprouts
Serving Suggestions
- Brunch – Avocado toast makes a fresh and fast weekend breakfast
- Lunch – For a filling midday meal, pair with soup or a salad
- Appetizer – Use mini toast slices for a unique starter or party bites
- Side Dish – Flank grilled meats or roasted vegetables with the toast
- Light Dinner – To keep it simple, enjoy avo toast with nuts and fruit
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Storing
If you have extra mashed avocado, transfer it to an airtight container, smooth out the surface (to limit exposure to air), and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing the container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To store any uneaten toast, keep the toasted bread and mashed avocado separate. Seal toasted bread in foil or plastic wrap to retain crispness for a day or two.
Reheating
If you have leftover assembled avocado toast, here are some quick ways to make it tasty again:
- Toaster Oven – Arrange the toasts directly on the rack and reheat at 325°F for 4-5 minutes until warmed through.
- Skillet – Place the avocado toasts in a skillet over medium-low heat. Cover and cook for 2-3 minutes per side to gently warm while crisping the bread a bit.
- Microwave – Microwaving is not recommended. It will make the bread rubbery.
FAQs
Got avocado toast questions? Here are answers to some commonly asked queries:
How do I know if an avocado is ripe enough?
Look for avocados that yield slightly when squeezed gently; they should be just starting to feel soft. The skin will be dark green or purple-black. Overly firm or hard avocados will not mash nicely.
Can I prepare my toast ahead of time?
You can toast your bread up to a day in advance. Let cool completely then store at room temperature in an airtight bag or container. Avocado should always be prepped and mashed right before assembling and serving the toast.
Is there an easy way to remove the avocado pit?
Yes! Carefully slice all the way around the perimeter of the avocado lengthwise. Then twist the two halves in opposite directions to separate. The pit should stick in only one half, allowing you to easily remove, avoid hand injuries and neatly prep the other side.
How do I stop the avocado from turning brown?
Exposure to air causes oxidation and browning. To prevent, assemble toast just before eating or coat surface tightly with plastic wrap.
Can I freeze extra mashed avocado?
Absolutely! Portion it out into an ice cube tray, freezer bags, or airtight container with plastic wrap directly on the surface before freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
First Watch Avocado Toast Recipe
This easy, delicious take on avocado toast is inspired by First Watch's iconic brunch cafe recipe - learn how to make the perfect First Watch Avocado Toast Recipe at home!
Ingredients
- Sourdough bread (Sullivan Street Bakery or similar bakery)
- 1 ripe avocado
- Olive oil, Sea salt, Black pepper (optional)
- Lemon juice (optional)
Kitchen Tools:
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Toaster
- Spoon
Instructions
- Toast the sourdough bread until lightly golden brown and crisp.
- Cut the avocado in half and carefully remove the avocado pit using a technique that keeps your hands away (be cautious; it can be dangerous). With the avocado still in its skin, make lengthwise and widthwise cuts to create small chunks, ensuring it does not cut through the whole skin.
- Gently scoop out the avocado chunks with a spoon and transfer them to a bowl.
- Lightly smash the avocado chunks with the spoon. Avoid overly sliced or overly mashed avocados. (Sprinkle the avocado with olive oil and season with sea salt and black pepper, optional.)
- Finally, spread the mashed avocado on the toasted bread and serve. Drizzle with a squeeze of lemon juice (optional).
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 350Total Fat: 25gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 250mgCarbohydrates: 30gNet Carbohydrates: 25gFiber: 10gSugar: 2gProtein: 7g
Conclusion
Creamy, crisp, and full of flavor – this First Watch Avocado Toast Recipe delivers on all fronts. Thanks to First Watch for generously sharing their techniques for making perfectly smashable avo toast. With their signature recipe, you can now enjoy this iconic brunch staple at home anytime the craving strikes.
Let me know if you give this easy yet impressive avocado toast recipe a try! Customize it by mixing and matching your favorite toppings and breads. No matter how you make it, this First Watch-inspired toast is sure to satisfy your savory breakfast needs.
