A colorful, nutrient-rich vegan toast featuring creamy avocado, juicy cherry tomatoes, sweet-tart cranberries, and crunchy toasted walnuts. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, a light lunch, or a healthy snack.
Yield: 2 servings (4 toast slices)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the Toast
- 4 slices thick whole-grain, sourdough, rye, or multigrain bread (vegan)
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Toppings
- 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup (35 g) dried cranberries
- ⅓ cup (40 g) walnuts
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, basil, or cilantro, finely chopped
Optional Flavor Boosters
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon balsamic glaze
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon hemp seeds or pumpkin seeds
- Microgreens for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Toast the Walnuts
- Heat a small dry skillet over medium heat.
- Add the walnuts in a single layer.
- Toast for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Once fragrant and lightly browned, remove from heat immediately.
- Let cool, then roughly chop.
Tip: Don’t walk away while toasting; walnuts can burn quickly.
Step 2: Prepare the Avocado Spread
- Cut the avocados in half and remove the pits.
- Scoop the flesh into a medium bowl.
- Add:
- Lemon juice
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder (if using)
- Mash with a fork until creamy but still slightly chunky.
For extra creaminess: Stir in 1 teaspoon olive oil.
Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Mixture
- Place the halved cherry tomatoes in a bowl.
- Add:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Small pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- Toss gently until coated.
Allow the tomatoes to sit for 2–3 minutes. This helps them release a little juice and become more flavorful.
Step 4: Toast the Bread
- Toast the bread until golden brown and crisp.
- For extra crunch, lightly brush both sides with olive oil before toasting.
The toast should be crisp enough to support the toppings without becoming soggy.
Step 5: Assemble the Toast
- Spread the mashed avocado evenly over each toast slice.
- Arrange the cherry tomatoes on top.
- Sprinkle the dried cranberries evenly over the tomatoes.
- Add the chopped toasted walnuts.
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs.
Step 6: Finish and Garnish
For maximum flavor, finish with:
- A drizzle of olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional finishing touches:
- Balsamic glaze for tangy sweetness
- Maple syrup for a sweet-savory contrast
- Hemp seeds for extra protein
- Microgreens for freshness
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Green smoothie
- Vegan yogurt
- Fresh orange juice
- Hot tea or coffee
Make-Ahead Tips
Avocado
Mash the avocado up to 4 hours ahead and store in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to minimize browning.
Walnuts
Toast up to 3 days ahead and store in an airtight container.
Tomatoes
Slice just before serving for the freshest texture.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380–450
- Protein: 8–10 g
- Fiber: 10–12 g
- Healthy fats: 25–30 g
- Rich in potassium, vitamin E, vitamin C, and antioxidants
