The Rise of the Elevated Toast

Toast has come a long way from a simple breakfast staple to a canvas for culinary creativity. In cafés, home kitchens, and social feeds across the world, avocado toast has become an icon of modern food culture. But when you add a jammy egg—with its custardy yolk—and a vibrant layer of fresh basil pesto, the humble toast transforms into something truly special.

This Jammy Egg, Avocado & Pesto Toast is the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Crunchy toast meets buttery avocado, herbal pesto, and a rich egg that ties everything together. It’s comforting yet refined, simple yet indulgent, and ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even a light lunch.

Unlike hard-boiled eggs, a jammy egg delivers a creamy yolk that flows gently without being runny. Combined with avocado’s natural richness and pesto’s bold herbal notes, every bite feels intentional and satisfying.

Why This Toast Works So Well

Minimal ingredients with maximum flavor
Balanced fats, protein, and carbs
Customizable for different diets
Quick enough for weekdays, elegant enough for brunch

This recipe proves that great food doesn’t have to be complicated—it just has to be thoughtful.

Understanding the Jammy Egg

A jammy egg sits perfectly between soft-boiled and hard-boiled. The whites are fully set, while the yolk remains thick, creamy, and spoonable. This texture is ideal for toast because it spreads naturally without becoming messy.

Timing is essential. Cooking the egg just long enough, followed by an ice bath, ensures consistency and easy peeling.

INGREDIENTS

2 slices artisan sourdough bread
1 ripe avocado
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons basil pesto
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh lemon juice (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

Bring a small saucepan of water to a gentle boil.
Carefully lower eggs into the water and cook for 6½ to 7 minutes.
Transfer eggs immediately to an ice bath and let cool for 5 minutes.
Toast sourdough slices until golden and crisp.
Mash avocado in a bowl with salt, pepper, and a few drops of lemon juice.
Peel eggs carefully and slice them in half.
Spread mashed avocado evenly over each slice of toast.
Drizzle olive oil lightly over the avocado.
Spoon pesto over the avocado layer.
Place jammy egg halves on top.
Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
Serve immediately while toast is warm.

Flavor Balance Breakdown

Avocado: Creamy and neutral, acting as the base
Pesto: Bright, garlicky, and herbaceous
Egg: Rich and savory with a luxurious texture
Toast: Crunchy contrast that anchors the dish

Together, they create a harmony of textures that feels indulgent yet nourishing.

Choosing the Best Bread

Sourdough is ideal due to its structure and tangy flavor, but other options work well:

Whole grain for added fiber
Rye for earthy depth
Gluten-free artisan loaves for dietary needs

The key is thickness—thin slices won’t support the toppings.