This vibrant vegan avocado toast is the perfect way to start your day. Layered with creamy vegan ricotta, smooth avocado, and savory sautéed mushrooms on hearty whole grain bread, this breakfast option delivers both nutrition and incredible flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan avocado toast recipe takes the beloved classic to new heights with layers of complementary flavors and textures. The combination of earthy mushrooms, creamy avocado, and tangy vegan ricotta creates a truly satisfying breakfast experience. It’s quick to prepare, nutritionally balanced, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re a committed vegan or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your routine, this toast delivers gourmet flavor with minimal effort. Plus, it’s packed with heart-healthy fats, protein, and fiber to keep you energized throughout the morning.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Whole grain bread forms the nutritious foundation of this recipe, providing fiber and a sturdy base that won’t get soggy under the toppings. Look for dense, seeded varieties for extra texture and nutrition.
Vegan ricotta cheese adds a creamy, slightly tangy layer that mimics traditional dairy ricotta. You can find commercial options at most grocery stores, or make your own using tofu or cashews if you prefer a homemade alternative.
Avocado brings that signature buttery texture and healthy fats that make avocado toast so beloved. Choose ones that yield slightly to gentle pressure for perfect mashing consistency.
Mushrooms contribute a meaty, umami flavor that makes this toast truly satisfying. Cremini offer a mild earthy flavor, while shiitakes provide a more intense woodsy taste, and portobellos deliver a substantial, meaty bite.
Olive oil helps to properly sauté the mushrooms, allowing them to develop a golden brown exterior and enhanced flavor. A good quality extra virgin olive oil will add its own subtle flavor notes.
Fresh thyme leaves complement the earthiness of the mushrooms perfectly. The aromatic, slightly floral quality cuts through the richness of the other ingredients.
Salt and pepper are essential for bringing out the flavors of each component. Don’t underestimate how much these simple seasonings enhance the overall taste.
Balsamic glaze provides an optional sweet-tart finish that balances the richness of the other ingredients. Just a light drizzle brings a complex flavor dimension to the finished toast.
Directions
- Choose and Toast Your Bread
Select a hearty whole grain loaf for nutritional value and texture. Toast the bread slices until golden and crisp, either in a toaster or in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. - Prepare the Avocado
Cut open a ripe avocado and scoop the flesh into a small bowl. Mash it with a fork or potato masher until you achieve a smooth but slightly chunky consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra brightness, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. - Sauté the Mushrooms
Clean and slice your chosen mushrooms. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and become golden brown. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme leaves. - Assemble the Toast
Spread a generous layer of vegan ricotta cheese on each slice of toasted bread. Top with a layer of mashed avocado, spreading it evenly. Distribute the sautéed mushrooms over the avocado layer. - Add Finishing Touches
Sprinkle additional fresh thyme leaves on top for extra flavor and visual appeal. If desired, drizzle a small amount of balsamic glaze over the toast. For added texture and protein, consider sprinkling some toasted seeds on top. - Serve Immediately
Enjoy your vegan avocado toast while it’s fresh and the bread is still warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes 4 servings (1 slice per serving). Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 15 minutes, making the total time around 25 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weekday breakfast or a casual weekend brunch. If serving a crowd, the recipe can be easily doubled or tripled.
Variations
- Mediterranean Style: Top your toast with roasted red peppers, olives, and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a Mediterranean twist.
- Spicy Version: Add thin slices of jalapeño and a dash of hot sauce to give your toast a kick.
- Veggie Loaded: Replace mushrooms with a mixture of sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach for extra vegetables.
- Protein Boost: Add crumbled seasoned tofu or a sprinkle of hemp seeds on top for additional protein.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate a sprinkle of smoked paprika or liquid smoke into your avocado mash for a smoky undertone.
- Sweet and Savory: Add thin slices of fresh pear or apple alongside the mushrooms for a sweet contrast.
- Herb Garden: Experiment with different herbs like basil, cilantro, or dill instead of thyme for varied flavor profiles.
Storage/Reheating
This avocado toast is best enjoyed immediately after preparation. However, if you need to prepare components ahead of time:
- Sautéed mushrooms can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
- Mashed avocado doesn’t store well as it browns quickly. If necessary, store it with the pit and a squeeze of lemon juice in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
- Vegan ricotta can be refrigerated in an airtight container for 3-5 days, depending on the brand or recipe if homemade.
- Toast and assemble just before serving for the best texture and flavor. Pre-assembled toast will become soggy if stored.
If you have leftover toast, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. To reheat, place the toast in a toaster oven for 2-3 minutes until the bread crisps up again and the toppings are warm.
FAQs
How do I pick the perfect avocado for this toast?
Choose avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure but aren’t mushy. The skin should be dark but not overly wrinkled. If you’re planning to make the toast in a few days, buy firmer avocados and let them ripen at room temperature.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free bread for the whole grain bread. Many grocery stores now carry high-quality gluten-free bread options that toast well.
What are the best mushrooms to use in this recipe?
Cremini, shiitake, and portobello mushrooms work best because of their robust flavors. You can use a single variety or create a mushroom medley. If using portobellos, remove the gills first for a cleaner presentation.
How can I prevent my avocado from browning?
The lemon juice suggested in the recipe helps prevent browning. If preparing avocado in advance, press plastic wrap directly against the surface of the mashed avocado and store it in the refrigerator.
What can I use instead of vegan ricotta if I can’t find it?
You can substitute hummus, mashed white beans blended with a bit of lemon and nutritional yeast, or homemade cashew cream. Each alternative will change the flavor profile slightly but still provide a creamy base.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
While complete assembled toasts don’t store well, you can prepare the mushrooms in advance and store them separately. Toast the bread and mash the avocado fresh when you’re ready to eat.
How can I make this recipe more filling?
Add protein-rich toppings like hemp seeds, pumpkin seeds, or a side of scrambled tofu. You could also serve the toast alongside a small serving of soup or a side salad for a more substantial meal.
Can I use frozen avocado for this recipe?
Fresh avocado is strongly recommended for the best flavor and texture. Frozen and thawed avocado tends to become watery and lose its creamy consistency.
What’s the best way to sauté mushrooms for maximum flavor?
For perfectly sautéed mushrooms, don’t overcrowd the pan and avoid stirring too frequently. Allow them to develop a golden brown color before turning. Also, add salt only after they’ve browned to prevent them from releasing too much water too soon.
Can I make a sweet version of this toast?
While this recipe focuses on savory flavors, you could create a sweet avocado toast by omitting the mushrooms and ricotta, and instead pairing the mashed avocado with ingredients like sliced strawberries, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Conclusion
This vegan avocado toast with mushrooms and vegan ricotta transforms a simple breakfast into a gourmet experience without complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. The combination of creamy, savory, and earthy flavors creates a wonderfully balanced dish that will satisfy vegans and non-vegans alike. It’s proof that plant-based eating can be both nutritious and incredibly delicious.
What makes this recipe special is its flexibility—feel free to adjust the toppings based on what’s in season or your personal preferences. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick weekday breakfast or as part of a leisurely weekend brunch, this elevated avocado toast delivers nutrition and satisfaction in every bite. Give this recipe a try, and it might just become your new go-to morning meal!
Print
Vegan Avocado Toast with Mushrooms and Vegan Ricotta
A delicious and nutritious vegan breakfast recipe featuring avocado toast topped with ricotta, mushrooms, and fresh herbs.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2-4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 slices of whole grain toast
- ½ cup of vegan ricotta cheese
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 cup of mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, or portobello)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: A drizzle of balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Toast whole grain bread until golden and crisp using a toaster or oven (375°F/190°C for 5-7 minutes).
- Mash the avocado in a small bowl until smooth but slightly chunky, adding salt, pepper, and optional lemon juice.
- Sauté the mushrooms with olive oil in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Spread a layer of vegan ricotta cheese on the toasted bread, followed by the mashed avocado.
- Top with sautéed mushrooms, spreading evenly across the toast.
- Finish with fresh thyme, optional balsamic glaze, and any additional toppings like sunflower seeds.
- Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Mushrooms can be prepared ahead and reheated.
- To prevent avocado browning, add lemon juice to the mix.
- For extra texture, sprinkle toasted sunflower or hemp seeds.
- Recipe can be doubled or tripled for larger servings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Toasting and Sautéing
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
