Description
For the Toast:
4 slices sourdough bread
1 ripe avocado, mashed
4 oz burrata cheese, torn into pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Basil Drizzle:
¼ cup fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 small garlic clove
¼ teaspoon salt
Directions:
Prepare the Basil Drizzle:
In a small blender or food processor, blend basil, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt until smooth. Set aside.
Grill the Bread:
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Brush both sides of the sourdough slices with olive oil and grill for 1-2 minutes per side until golden and
crisp.
Assemble the Toast:
Spread mashed avocado evenly over the toasted sourdough. Top with torn burrata cheese and season with sea salt and black pepper.
Drizzle and Serve:
Drizzle the basil sauce over the toast and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 5 minutes Total Time: 15 minutes Kcal: 280 per serving Servings: 2
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Avocado Burrata Toast every time.
- Prepare the Drizzle: In your blender or small food processor, combine ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, 1 small garlic clove, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Blend on high until completely smooth and vibrant green. Set aside in a small bowl.
- Toast the Bread: Heat a grill pan or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly brush both sides of four sourdough slices with olive oil. Place them in the hot pan and grill for 1-2 minutes per side, pressing down gently, until you achieve distinct grill marks and a crisp, golden exterior.
- Mash the Avocado: While the bread toasts, halve a ripe avocado, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Mash with a fork to your desired consistency—slightly chunky is ideal for texture.
- Assemble with Care: Place the grilled toast on a serving board or plates. Spread the mashed avocado evenly across each slice. Take 4 oz of burrata cheese, tear it into rustic pieces with your hands, and distribute it over the avocado.
- Season & Finish: Season the assembled toasts with ½ teaspoon sea salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Give the basil drizzle a quick stir and drizzle it generously over the top using a spoon. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate this toast from a snack to a complete meal. For a hearty brunch, pair it with crispy bacon or prosciutto. A simple side salad of arugula with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. For a touch of sweetness and acidity, top the toast with a handful of cherry tomatoes or a sprinkle of chili flakes for heat.
How-to Summary
In short: Blend basil, oil, lemon, garlic, and salt for the drizzle. Grill oiled sourdough until crisp. Top with mashed avocado, torn burrata, salt, and pepper. Finish with the basil drizzle and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the basil drizzle ahead of time?
Yes, but store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The surface may darken slightly; a thin layer of olive oil on top can help prevent this.
What can I use instead of burrata?
Fresh mozzarella (mozzarella di bufala is excellent) is the closest substitute. For a dairy-free version, a creamy vegan cheese or even seasoned chickpeas work.
How do I pick the perfect avocado?
Gently squeeze the avocado; it should yield slightly to firm pressure. Avoid avocados with deep dents or a mushy feel.
My toast gets soggy. How can I prevent this?
Assemble immediately before serving. Ensure your bread is thoroughly grilled and crisp to create a moisture barrier. You can also mash the avocado just before assembling.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh for the drizzle?
No. Dried basil will not provide the fresh, vibrant flavor or the proper consistency for the sauce. Fresh basil is essential for this recipe.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using under-ripe avocado: A hard avocado won’t mash properly and lacks flavor and creaminess.
- Over-blending the basil drizzle: Blend just until smooth. Over-processing can incorporate too much air and cause the sauce to oxidize and turn brown.
- Skipping the seasoning of the avocado layer: Seasoning each component (the avocado and the final toast) builds depth of flavor.
- Letting the assembled toast sit: This dish is best enjoyed the moment it’s put together to maintain contrasting textures.
Conclusion
This Avocado Burrata Toast with Basil Drizzle is a masterclass in simple, quality ingredients creating an extraordinary result. The combination of creamy textures, crisp sourdough, and the fresh, herby sauce is both luxurious and surprisingly easy to achieve. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently create a restaurant-worthy dish perfect for any quick yet impressive meal.
