Smashed Egg Toasts with Herby Lemon Yogurt

It’s funny how sometimes the simplest recipes can become absolute staples in your kitchen. Smashed Egg Toasts with Herby Lemon Yogurt were one of those happy accidents for me. One busy weekday morning, staring into a fridge with limited options but craving something more exciting than plain toast, I threw this together. Honestly, I didn’t expect much. But wow, the combination of creamy, tangy yogurt, perfectly smashed eggs, and crispy toast was just… chef’s kiss. My family, who are usually quite vocal about their breakfast preferences (read: picky!), devoured it. Even my youngest, who usually turns his nose up at anything green, was asking for seconds. Since then, these toasts have become a regular feature, whether it’s a quick breakfast before school, a light lunch, or even a simple weeknight dinner. They are endlessly customizable, surprisingly satisfying, and just genuinely delicious. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy, healthy, and packed with flavor, you absolutely must try these Smashed Egg Toasts.

Ingredients

This recipe is all about fresh, vibrant flavors and simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful Smashed Egg Toasts:

• Eggs: The star of the show! You’ll need large eggs, preferably free-range or organic for the best flavor and texture. They should be cooked to your preferred level of doneness – hard-boiled for easy smashing, or slightly softer if you like a bit of yolk richness.
• Greek Yogurt: Opt for plain, full-fat or low-fat Greek yogurt. Full-fat will give you a richer, creamier texture, while low-fat is a lighter option. Greek yogurt provides the tangy base for our herby lemon sauce and is packed with protein.
• Lemon: Fresh lemon zest and juice are crucial for that bright, zesty flavor that cuts through the richness of the yogurt and eggs. Use organic lemons if possible, especially if you’re using the zest.
• Fresh Herbs: A medley of fresh herbs elevates this dish to another level. Consider using a combination of:
  • Dill: Offers a delicate, slightly grassy flavor that pairs beautifully with lemon and eggs.
  • Parsley: Flat-leaf parsley is preferred for its stronger, fresher flavor compared to curly parsley. It adds a clean, green note.
  • Chives: Provide a mild onion-like flavor that complements the other herbs and adds a subtle sharpness.
  • Mint: A touch of fresh mint can add a surprising and refreshing twist, especially during warmer months. Use it sparingly as it can be quite potent.
• Garlic (Optional): A clove of garlic, minced or grated, adds a subtle savory depth to the yogurt sauce. If you’re not a fan of garlic, feel free to omit it.
• Olive Oil: Good quality extra virgin olive oil is used for toasting the bread and drizzling over the finished toasts. It adds richness and flavor.
• Bread: Choose your favorite bread for toasting. Sourdough, whole wheat, multigrain, or even a crusty baguette all work wonderfully. Opt for a bread that will hold up well to toppings without becoming soggy.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors. Freshly ground black pepper is always recommended for the best aroma and taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a pleasant kick to the yogurt sauce or can be sprinkled over the finished toasts.
• Everything Bagel Seasoning (Optional): Adds a savory, crunchy topping with a blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, and dried onion.
• Avocado (Optional): Sliced or mashed avocado can be added for extra creaminess, healthy fats, and flavor. It pairs wonderfully with the lemon and herbs.
• Smoked Salmon or Prosciutto (Optional): For a more substantial meal, consider adding a few slices of smoked salmon or prosciutto on top of the yogurt before adding the smashed eggs.

Instructions

Making Smashed Egg Toasts with Herby Lemon Yogurt is incredibly simple and quick. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create this delicious and satisfying dish:

1. Cook the Eggs: Start by preparing your eggs. You can cook them to your preferred level of doneness. For easier smashing and a classic texture, hard-boiled eggs are recommended. Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover them with cold water, ensuring the water is about an inch above the eggs. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, remove the pan from the heat, cover it, and let it sit for 8-10 minutes for hard-boiled eggs (adjust time for softer yolks if desired). After the time is up, immediately transfer the eggs to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and make them easier to peel.
2. Prepare the Herby Lemon Yogurt: While the eggs are cooking or cooling, prepare the herby lemon yogurt sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic (if using), and finely chopped fresh herbs (dill, parsley, chives, mint, or a combination). Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more lemon juice for tanginess or salt for flavor. Stir everything together until well combined.
3. Toast the Bread: While the eggs are cooling and the yogurt sauce is ready, prepare your toast. Slice your chosen bread into desired thicknesses. You can toast the bread in a toaster, under a broiler, or in a skillet. For skillet toasting, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bread slices and toast on both sides until golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, you can brush the bread slices with olive oil and toast them in a toaster oven or under a broiler until golden brown and crispy.
4. Peel and Smash the Eggs: Once the eggs are cool enough to handle, gently peel them. Place the peeled eggs in a bowl. Using a fork, gently smash the eggs into smaller pieces. You can smash them coarsely for a chunkier texture or more finely for a smoother consistency, depending on your preference. Don’t over-mash them; you want to retain some texture.
5. Assemble the Toasts: Now it’s time to assemble your Smashed Egg Toasts. Spread a generous layer of the herby lemon yogurt onto each slice of toasted bread. Top the yogurt with the smashed eggs, distributing them evenly over the toast.
6. Garnish and Serve: For the final touch, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the smashed egg toasts. You can also sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, everything bagel seasoning for extra flavor and crunch, or additional chopped fresh herbs for garnish and freshness. If using, add slices of avocado or smoked salmon/prosciutto at this stage, placing them either under or over the smashed eggs, depending on your preference. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

These Smashed Egg Toasts with Herby Lemon Yogurt are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a general nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming 1 slice of toast and ¼ of the recipe), please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes:

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-450 kcal (depending on bread, yogurt fat content, and additions)
• Protein: 18-25g
• Fat: 15-25g (primarily healthy fats from olive oil, yogurt, and eggs)
• Carbohydrates: 25-35g
• Fiber: 3-5g
• Sodium: 300-500mg (depending on salt added)
• Cholesterol: 150-200mg (from eggs)

Key Nutritional Benefits:

• High in Protein: Eggs and Greek yogurt are excellent sources of protein, crucial for muscle building, satiety, and overall health.
• Healthy Fats: Olive oil, avocado (if added), and egg yolks provide healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, beneficial for heart health and brain function.
• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Eggs are packed with vitamins A, D, E, B vitamins, and choline. Greek yogurt provides calcium and vitamin B12. Fresh herbs contribute vitamins and antioxidants.
• Good Source of Fiber: Whole wheat or multigrain bread adds dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping to regulate blood sugar levels.
• Relatively Low in Sugar: This recipe is naturally low in sugar, especially if you use plain Greek yogurt and avoid sugary toppings.

This recipe is a balanced and nutritious meal option, suitable for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or a light dinner. It’s a great way to start your day or refuel after a workout, providing sustained energy and essential nutrients.

Preparation Time

The beauty of Smashed Egg Toasts with Herby Lemon Yogurt lies in its speed and simplicity. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation time:

• Active Prep Time: 15-20 minutes (this includes cooking eggs, preparing yogurt sauce, and toasting bread).
• Cook Time for Eggs: 8-10 minutes (for hard-boiled eggs).
• Total Time (Start to Finish): Approximately 25-30 minutes.

This recipe is perfect for busy mornings, quick lunches, or when you need a satisfying meal in a short amount of time. Most of the time is hands-off while the eggs are boiling and the bread is toasting, allowing you to multitask or simply relax while your delicious meal comes together. You can even make the herby lemon yogurt sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, further reducing the prep time on the day you want to enjoy the toasts. Cooking the eggs in advance also saves time during busy mornings.

How to Serve

Smashed Egg Toasts with Herby Lemon Yogurt are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, depending on the occasion and your preferences. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Breakfast/Brunch:
  • Serve as is for a quick and satisfying weekday breakfast.
  • Pair with a side of fresh fruit salad or berries for a more complete brunch spread.
  • Offer alongside other brunch favorites like avocado toast, pancakes, or waffles for a larger gathering.
  • Serve with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for those who prefer a heartier breakfast.
  • Present on a platter for a visually appealing brunch buffet.
• Lunch:
  • Enjoy as a light and flavorful lunch on its own.
  • Serve with a side salad, such as a simple green salad with a vinaigrette or a cucumber and tomato salad, for a more balanced meal.
  • Pair with a cup of soup, like tomato soup or a light vegetable soup, for a comforting lunch combination.
  • Pack for a healthy and portable lunch to take to work or school.
• Light Dinner:
  • Serve as a simple and satisfying light dinner, especially on warmer evenings.
  • Pair with a larger salad, such as a grilled chicken salad or a Mediterranean salad, for a more substantial dinner.
  • Serve alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers for added nutrients and flavor.
  • Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing light dinner experience.
• Appetizer/Snack:
  • Cut the toasts into smaller pieces and serve as elegant appetizers for a party or gathering.
  • Offer as a healthy and flavorful snack between meals.
  • Arrange on a serving platter with other appetizers like hummus and crudités, olives, and cheese.
• Customization Options:
  • Spice it up: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for those who like a bit of heat.
  • Add Creaminess: Top with sliced or mashed avocado for extra richness and healthy fats.
  • Make it Heartier: Add smoked salmon, prosciutto, or grilled chicken for more protein and substance.
  • Vegetarian Boost: Add roasted vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for a vegetarian-friendly meal.
  • Freshness Factor: Garnish with extra fresh herbs, sprouts, or microgreens for added flavor and visual appeal.

No matter how you choose to serve them, Smashed Egg Toasts with Herby Lemon Yogurt are sure to be a hit. Their versatility and delicious flavor make them perfect for any time of day and any occasion.

Additional Tips for Perfect Smashed Egg Toasts

To ensure your Smashed Egg Toasts with Herby Lemon Yogurt are absolutely perfect every time, here are some helpful tips and tricks:

1. Perfectly Cooked Eggs are Key: The foundation of this recipe is the eggs. Experiment with different cooking times to find your preferred yolk consistency. For easy smashing, hard-boiled eggs are ideal. For a slightly richer and creamier texture, try cooking them a minute or two less for a softer yolk. Remember to always plunge the eggs into an ice bath immediately after cooking to stop the cooking process and make peeling easier.
2. Fresh Herbs are Non-Negotiable: Dried herbs simply won’t provide the same vibrant flavor and freshness as fresh herbs. Use a generous amount of a combination of your favorite fresh herbs like dill, parsley, chives, and mint. Chop them finely to release their aromas and ensure they blend well into the yogurt sauce. If you don’t have all the herbs listed, don’t worry! Use what you have on hand – even a single type of fresh herb will be delicious.
3. Taste and Adjust the Yogurt Sauce: The herby lemon yogurt sauce is the flavor powerhouse of this dish. Taste it before assembling the toasts and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Need more tang? Add more lemon juice. Want more saltiness? Add a pinch more salt. Prefer a garlicky kick? Add a bit more minced garlic. Don’t be afraid to customize the sauce to perfectly match your taste preferences.
4. Choose the Right Bread: The type of bread you use significantly impacts the texture and overall experience of the toasts. Opt for sturdy bread that can hold up well to the toppings without becoming soggy. Sourdough, whole wheat, multigrain, or crusty baguette are all excellent choices. Consider toasting the bread to different levels of crispness depending on your preference. Some prefer a lightly toasted bread, while others enjoy a deeply golden and crunchy toast.
5. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan When Toasting: If you are pan-toasting your bread, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Toasting bread in batches ensures that each slice gets evenly golden brown and crispy. Overcrowding can steam the bread instead of toasting it properly. Use enough olive oil to lightly coat the bottom of the pan for even toasting and flavor.
6. Smash Eggs Gently: When smashing the eggs, use a fork and gently break them into smaller pieces. Avoid over-mashing them into a paste. You want to retain some texture and chunkiness for a more satisfying bite. The level of smashing is also a matter of personal preference – some prefer a coarser smash, while others like it finer.
7. Assemble Just Before Serving: For the best texture and flavor, assemble the smashed egg toasts just before serving. This prevents the yogurt sauce from making the toast soggy and ensures that the eggs are still nicely warm (or at your desired temperature). If you are preparing for a larger group, you can toast the bread and prepare the yogurt sauce and smashed eggs ahead of time, then assemble just before serving.
8. Experiment with Toppings and Variations: This recipe is a fantastic base for endless variations. Don’t be afraid to get creative with toppings and additions. Try adding:
   • Spices: Smoked paprika, cumin, or turmeric to the yogurt sauce for a different flavor profile.
   • Vegetables: Roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or caramelized onions for added sweetness and depth.
   • Cheeses: Crumbled feta cheese, goat cheese, or parmesan cheese for extra flavor and creaminess.
   • Seeds and Nuts: Toasted sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, or chopped walnuts for added crunch and nutrition.
   • Pickled Elements: Pickled onions, capers, or cornichons for a tangy and briny contrast.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to consistently create perfect Smashed Egg Toasts with Herby Lemon Yogurt that are bursting with flavor, perfectly textured, and satisfying every time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about Smashed Egg Toasts with Herby Lemon Yogurt to help you make the most of this recipe:

Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: While it’s best to assemble the toasts just before serving, you can definitely prepare components in advance. You can hard-boil the eggs and store them peeled in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The herby lemon yogurt sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Toast the bread just before serving to maintain its crispness.

Q2: Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

A: Greek yogurt is highly recommended for this recipe due to its thick and creamy texture and tangy flavor. Regular yogurt is thinner and may make the toasts soggy. If you only have regular yogurt, you can strain it through cheesecloth for a few hours to remove excess liquid and thicken it slightly. However, Greek yogurt will still provide the best results.

Q3: What are some good substitutions for fresh herbs?

A: Fresh herbs are essential for the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use dried herbs. Use about 1/3 the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh herbs as their flavor is more concentrated. For example, if the recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of fresh dill, use 1 teaspoon of dried dill. While dried herbs will work, the flavor will be less vibrant.

Q4: Can I make this recipe vegan?

A: To make this recipe vegan, you would need to substitute both the eggs and the Greek yogurt. For the eggs, you could try using mashed chickpeas or crumbled tofu seasoned with nutritional yeast and black salt (kala namak) for an eggy flavor. For the Greek yogurt, use a plant-based yogurt alternative like coconut yogurt, soy yogurt, or almond yogurt. Ensure the plant-based yogurt is plain and unsweetened.

Q5: What kind of bread is best for smashed egg toasts?

A: Sturdy breads that can hold up well to toppings are ideal. Sourdough, whole wheat, multigrain, rye, and crusty baguettes are all excellent choices. Avoid very soft and fluffy breads that might become soggy quickly. Consider your personal preference for flavor and texture when choosing your bread.

Q6: How can I make this recipe spicier?

A: There are several ways to add spice to your Smashed Egg Toasts:
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herby lemon yogurt sauce.
* Drizzle hot sauce over the smashed eggs before serving.
* Incorporate a finely chopped chili pepper (like jalapeño or serrano) into the yogurt sauce or sprinkle it over the toasts.
* Use a spicy olive oil for toasting the bread or drizzling over the finished toasts.

Q7: Can I add other vegetables to these toasts?

A: Absolutely! Smashed Egg Toasts are very versatile, and you can easily add other vegetables. Good additions include:
* Sliced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.
* Roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
* Fresh greens like arugula or spinach, either under the yogurt or tossed on top.
* Sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for added flavor and texture.

Q8: Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

A: Yes, components of this recipe can be meal prepped. Hard-boiled eggs can be cooked and stored for up to 3 days. Herby lemon yogurt sauce can be made and stored for up to 2 days. You can also slice your bread in advance. However, it’s best to toast the bread and assemble the toasts just before serving to maintain the best texture and prevent sogginess. Meal prepping the individual components makes assembling a quick and healthy meal during the week much easier.

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