Smoked Salmon and Avocado Toast with Tangy Carrot Salad

Smoked Salmon and Avocado Toast with Tangy Carrot Salad

Published Oct. 1, 2024

Total Time: 15 minutes | Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes

Introduction

This elegant lunch dish marries creamy mashed avocado, briny smoked salmon, and tangy carrot strips atop perfectly toasted sourdough. The balanced textures and bright flavors make it a satisfying, restaurant-worthy meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients (Serves 1)

• 1 small carrot (peeled, shaved into long, thin strips using a vegetable peeler)

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

• 2 teaspoons distilled white vinegar

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

• 1 slice sourdough bread (½-inch thick)

• 1 ripe avocado (peeled, pitted)

• 1 tablespoon capers (drained, rinsed briefly to reduce saltiness)

• 3 oz (85g) smoked salmon (sliced into bite-sized pieces)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Tangy Carrot Salad

Purpose: Let flavors meld while prepping other components.

• In a small bowl, combine shaved carrot strips, olive oil, and white vinegar.

• Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper; toss to ensure even coating.

• Refrigerate for 1–2 days (prep ahead) to allow flavors to develop. Bring to room temperature for 10 minutes before assembling for optimal freshness.

2. Toast the Sourdough Bread

Purpose: Achieve crispy exterior with a soft interior.

• Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat for 2 minutes.

• Place the sourdough slice directly on the hot skillet. Toast until golden-brown and crisp on the edges, ~3 minutes per side (adjust time based on desired crunch: longer for extra crisp, shorter for softer texture).

• Transfer to a plate to cool slightly (avoid sogginess from residual heat).

3. Mash the Avocado

Purpose: Creamy base with minimal oxidation.

• In a medium bowl, add peeled avocado flesh. Squeeze in ½ teaspoon fresh lemon juice (to prevent browning), a pinch of salt, and a grind of black pepper.

• Mash with a fork until smooth but retain slight texture (over-mashing leads to runny consistency). Set aside.

4. Assemble the Dish

Purpose: Layer flavors for balanced, bite-sized portions.

• Place the toasted sourdough on a serving plate.

• Spread mashed avocado evenly across the bread, leaving a small border for visual appeal.

• Sprinkle drained capers over the avocado (distribute for briny pops of flavor).

• Arrange smoked salmon slices in an overlapping pattern for even distribution.

• Top with prepared carrot salad, ensuring all components are visible and accessible in each bite.

Variations & Pro Tips

• Salad Enhancements: Swap plain carrots for a mixed slaw (thinly sliced red cabbage + red onion + carrots) with red/white wine vinegar, lemon zest, and a pinch of cayenne for warmth.

• Avocado Upgrade: Drizzle with chili oil or flaky sea salt for added depth; avoid over-mashing to preserve creaminess.

• Make-Ahead Efficiency: Double the carrot salad and use it as a side for tacos, roasted meats, or grain bowls.

Reader Comments

• "Elegant & Versatile": "Delicious 'fancy lunch'! Added shaved red onion to the carrot salad and a generous grind of black pepper—elevated the flavor without overpowering the original components. Perfect for a quick, impressive meal."

• "Texture & Flavor Harmony": "Didn’t expect such a balanced profile. The tangy carrot salad, creamy avocado, and briny salmon work seamlessly. No extra spices needed—pure, natural perfection."

• "Creative Twists": "Substituted the carrot salad with a slaw of red cabbage, red onion, and carrots (plus red/white wine vinegar, cayenne, and lemon). Stored it, then paired with avocado/capers/salmon. Divine! This slaw also pairs beautifully with gochujang pork tacos."

• "Ingredient Quality Note": "Used rice vinegar (mild) and a less-ripe avocado (mediocre). Prioritize ripe avocado and quality vinegar for 5-star results!"

Final Note: This dish balances simplicity and sophistication, ideal for busy workdays or lazy weekends. Customize with your favorite variations, and enjoy the harmonious blend of textures and flavors!