Crispy Halloumi Avocado Toast (Printable)

Toasted sourdough topped with crispy halloumi and mashed avocado, finished with herbs or chili flakes.

# Ingredient List:

→ Bread

01 - 2 large slices sourdough bread or rustic country bread

→ Cheese

02 - 5.3 ounces halloumi cheese, sliced into 0.2-inch thick pieces

→ Avocado Topping

03 - 1 large ripe avocado
04 - 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
05 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
06 - 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

→ Garnishes

07 - Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
08 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs such as mint, cilantro, or parsley
09 - 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds or dukkah
10 - Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

# Steps:

01 - Place the bread slices in a toaster or on a preheated grill pan. Toast until golden brown and crisp on both sides.
02 - While bread is toasting, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add halloumi slices and sear for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Transfer to a plate.
03 - In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe avocado with lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth yet slightly chunky.
04 - Drizzle toasted bread with olive oil. Evenly spread mashed avocado over each slice.
05 - Arrange the crispy halloumi slices on top of the avocado-covered toast.
06 - Sprinkle red pepper flakes, fresh herbs, sesame seeds or dukkah over the toast. Add cherry tomato halves, if desired.
07 - Serve immediately while warm for optimal flavor and texture.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The balance of buttery avocado and crispy-salty halloumi might just convert even the staunchest traditionalist.
  • It&aposs my go-to brunch that impresses guests but requires barely any forethought.
02 -
  • If the halloumi is too wet, it sputters and won&apost brown—pat it dry with a towel before cooking.
  • Rubbing the toast with a cut garlic clove before adding toppings makes the whole dish unexpectedly savory.
03 -
  • Let the halloumi rest for a minute after frying for the best texture—firm but not rubbery.
  • Arrange the halloumi slices slightly overlapping for easier, less messy first bites.