Smashed Avocado Toast

Ingredients

• 2 slices sourdough bread
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp chili flakes
• Salt and pepper
• 1 tsp olive oil

Instructions

Follow each step in order. The directions below are written so a beginner can understand what to do, what to look for, and when to move on to the next step.

1. Step 1.Start by checking that the avocado is ripe. Hold it gently in your palm and press very lightly; it should give slightly without feeling mushy. A very hard avocado will be difficult to mash, while one that feels extremely soft may be bruised inside.
2. Step 2.Cut the avocado lengthwise around the pit using a small kitchen knife. Twist the two halves in opposite directions to separate them. Remove the pit carefully, then scoop the green flesh into a small bowl with a spoon.
3. Step 3.Add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, a small pinch of salt, and a few grinds of black pepper to the avocado. The lemon adds brightness and also helps slow browning, while the salt brings out the avocado's flavor.
4. Step 4.Mash the avocado with a fork. Press down repeatedly until it is mostly creamy, but leave a few small pieces intact if you like a little texture. Do not blend it into a completely smooth puree unless that is your preference.
5. Step 5.Toast the sourdough slices until the outside is crisp and the center is warmed through. In a toaster, use the setting that gives you a deep golden color without burning the edges. If using a skillet, toast over medium heat and turn the bread once for even browning.
6. Step 6.Taste the avocado mixture before spreading it on the toast. If it tastes flat, add another tiny pinch of salt; if it needs more brightness, add a few drops of lemon juice. Add seasoning gradually so the avocado does not become too salty or sour.
7. Step 7.Place the warm toast on plates and divide the avocado mixture between the two slices. Use the back of a spoon to spread it all the way toward the edges so each bite contains avocado.
8. Step 8.Sprinkle the chili flakes evenly over the avocado. Start with a small amount if you are sensitive to heat; you can always add more after tasting.
9. Step 9.Drizzle about 1 teaspoon of olive oil over the two slices, using a light hand so the toast does not become greasy. Add another small pinch of black pepper if desired.
10. Step 10.Serve the avocado toast immediately. The best texture is when the bread is still crisp and the avocado is cool and creamy. If you want to prepare it ahead, keep the avocado covered and refrigerated, then toast and assemble just before eating.