Pin It My neighbor knocked on my door one Saturday morning holding a basket of bread from the farmers market, insisting I try her new favorite lunch. She sliced sourdough, smashed avocado with the back of a fork, and tore fresh mozzarella right over the top before sliding it under my broiler. The cheese bubbled and browned at the edges while we talked about nothing important. That tartine became my go-to whenever I need something quick that still feels like I made an effort.
I started making these for my sister during her long study sessions, sliding a warm tartine across her desk without saying much. She'd look up, take a bite, and her shoulders would relax a little. It became our quiet ritual during exam season. Now she texts me photos whenever she makes them for herself, usually with some wild topping combination I'd never think to try.
Ingredients
- Rustic country bread or sourdough: The thicker and crustier, the better, it holds up to the creamy toppings without getting soggy and toasts into the most satisfying crunch.
- Ripe avocado: Look for one that yields slightly when you press it, too firm and it won't mash smoothly, too soft and it tastes bland.
- Fresh lemon juice: Just a teaspoon keeps the avocado bright green and adds a subtle zing that balances the richness.
- Salt and black pepper: Season the avocado generously, it needs more salt than you think to bring out its buttery flavor.
- Fresh mozzarella: The soft kind packed in water, not the low-moisture block, it melts into creamy puddles that seep into every corner.
- Extra virgin olive oil: A drizzle at the end adds fruity depth and a little sheen that makes everything look restaurant-worthy.
- Fresh basil leaves: Optional but worth it, they add a sweet herbal note that ties the whole thing together.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: A pinch gives just enough heat to wake up your taste buds without overwhelming the dish.
Instructions
- Get the bread golden:
- Preheat your broiler or toaster oven to high heat. Toast the bread slices until they're deeply golden and crisp on both sides, you want that satisfying crunch that won't wilt under toppings.
- Mash the avocado:
- While the bread toasts, halve your avocado, twist out the pit, and scoop the flesh into a small bowl. Add the lemon juice, a good pinch of salt, and several grinds of black pepper, then mash with a fork until it's mostly smooth but still has a few creamy chunks.
- Build the base:
- Spread the smashed avocado evenly over each toasted slice, right to the edges so every bite has that creamy layer. Don't skimp here, this is the foundation.
- Add the cheese:
- Tear or slice the mozzarella and arrange it over the avocado in an even layer. It doesn't need to be perfect, rustic looks better anyway.
- Melt under heat:
- Place the tartines on a baking tray and slide them under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely. Pull them out when the mozzarella is melted, bubbling, and just starting to develop golden spots.
- Finish and serve:
- Drizzle with olive oil, scatter fresh basil leaves and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like. Serve immediately while the cheese is still gooey and the bread is warm.
Pin It One evening I made these for a friend who'd just moved into a new apartment with nothing but a microwave and a toaster oven. She sat on her kitchen floor, eating straight off the baking tray, and said it was the first meal that made the empty space feel like home. Sometimes the simplest food lands exactly when it's needed.
Making It Your Own
I've tried this with everything from sliced cherry tomatoes to a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and it always works. A poached or fried egg on top turns it into a proper meal, the runny yolk mixing with the avocado is something I crave on lazy Sunday mornings. Arugula adds a peppery bite if you're feeling fancy, or keep it bare and simple when you just want comfort.
Choosing Your Bread
Sourdough is my favorite because of its tangy chew, but any rustic loaf with a thick crust and open crumb works beautifully. I've used ciabatta, whole grain, even gluten-free bread when my friend with celiac came over. The key is making sure it's substantial enough to support the toppings without turning into mush.
Storage and Timing
This isn't a make-ahead recipe, the magic is in the contrast between hot melted cheese and cool creamy avocado meeting crisp toast. That said, you can prep everything in advance, toast and mash the avocado up to an hour before, then assemble and broil right before serving. The avocado will brown slightly even with lemon juice, but it still tastes just as good.
- If you must save leftovers, store components separately and reassemble under the broiler.
- Cold leftover tartines work in a pinch but lose most of their charm.
- The mozzarella melts faster if you slice it thin rather than tearing it into thick chunks.
Pin It There's something quietly satisfying about a meal this simple tasting this good. Make it once and it'll become part of your rotation without you even deciding.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I prepare the avocado topping in advance?
It's best to assemble the tartine shortly before serving to keep the bread crisp. However, you can prepare the smashed avocado up to 2 hours ahead and store it in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent browning.
- → What type of bread works best for this dish?
Rustic country bread, sourdough, or ciabatta are ideal choices. These sturdy breads can support the toppings without becoming soggy. For a gluten-free option, use quality gluten-free bread that toasts well.
- → How do I know when the mozzarella is properly melted?
Watch for the cheese to become soft and bubbly, with slight browning at the edges. This typically takes 2-3 minutes under the broiler. Be careful not to over-broil, as the mozzarella can become rubbery.
- → What garnishes pair well with this tartine?
Fresh basil adds a peppery brightness, while crushed red pepper flakes provide heat. Cherry tomatoes, balsamic glaze, or a fried egg transform it into a heartier meal. Microgreens or arugula offer peppery crunch.
- → Is this tartine suitable for meal prep?
Toast the bread and prepare components separately for storage. Assemble individual tartines fresh to order for the best texture and flavor. Toasted bread stored in an airtight container keeps for up to 2 days.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute the mozzarella with dairy-free cheese alternatives. Many quality vegan mozzarellas melt reasonably well. Ensure all bread and other ingredients are also dairy-free certified.