Save My neighbor Rosa handed me a bag of tomatoes last spring, and I realized I had nothing but avocados and some leftover mozzarella in the fridge. I toasted the last two slices of sourdough, smashed the avocado without thinking twice, and melted cheese on top under the broiler. It was one of those accidental lunches that tasted better than anything I'd planned all week. Now I make this tartine whenever I need something quick, warm, and satisfying without pulling out every pot in the kitchen.
I started making these tartines for my sister on Sunday mornings when she'd stop by unannounced. She'd sit at the counter with her coffee, and I'd slide one of these across to her while the cheese was still bubbling. We never planned it, but it became our little ritual. She still texts me photos whenever she makes them at home, sometimes with an egg on top, sometimes with tomatoes she picked up at the market.
Ingredients
- Rustic country bread or sourdough: A sturdy bread with texture holds up under the creamy avocado and doesn't go soggy, and toasting it until golden gives you that perfect crunch.
- Ripe avocado: The avocado should yield slightly when you press it, not rock hard or overly soft, because the texture makes or breaks this dish.
- Fresh lemon juice: Just a teaspoon brightens the avocado and keeps it from browning too quickly if you're making these ahead.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Season the avocado generously because mozzarella is mild and needs the support.
- Fresh mozzarella: Use the soft, milky kind that melts beautifully, not the rubbery pre-shredded stuff.
- Extra virgin olive oil: A drizzle at the end adds richness and ties everything together with a fruity note.
- Fresh basil leaves: Optional but lovely, basil adds a peppery freshness that complements the creaminess.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: A pinch of heat wakes up the whole tartine if you like a little kick.
Instructions
- Toast the bread:
- Preheat your broiler or toaster oven to high and toast the bread slices until they're crisp and golden on both sides. You want them sturdy enough to hold the toppings without bending.
- Mash the avocado:
- Halve the avocado, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a small bowl, then add lemon juice, salt, and pepper and mash with a fork until mostly smooth with some chunks left for texture.
- Spread and layer:
- Spread the mashed avocado evenly over the toasted bread, then arrange the mozzarella slices on top in a single layer. Don't worry if they overlap a bit.
- Broil until melted:
- Place the tartines on a baking tray and broil for 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely, until the mozzarella melts and starts to bubble. Pull them out as soon as the cheese is gooey to avoid burning.
- Garnish and serve:
- Drizzle with olive oil and top with fresh basil leaves and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like. Serve immediately while the cheese is still warm and stretchy.
Save The first time I served these at a small dinner party, I made them as an appetizer while we waited for the main course. Everyone kept sneaking back into the kitchen asking if there were more, and I ended up making a second batch while we were supposed to be eating salad. It's funny how something so simple can steal the show without trying.
Choosing the Right Bread
I've tried this with everything from baguette slices to whole wheat sandwich bread, and the best results come from a rustic loaf with some chew and an open crumb. Sourdough is my favorite because the slight tang plays well with the creamy avocado and mild cheese. If you're using a softer bread, toast it a little longer so it doesn't collapse under the weight of the toppings.
Making It Your Own
Some mornings I'll add halved cherry tomatoes before broiling, and the juice mixes with the melted cheese in a way that's almost too good. Other times I'll crack an egg on top after the cheese melts and let it cook under the broiler for an extra minute. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a handful of arugula also works if you want to make it feel a little fancier without much effort.
Storage and Serving Tips
These tartines are best eaten right away while the cheese is melted and the bread is still crisp. If you need to prep ahead, you can mash the avocado and store it in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface to prevent browning. Toast the bread and assemble everything just before serving so nothing gets soggy.
- Leftover mashed avocado keeps for a few hours in the fridge but won't be as bright green.
- You can toast the bread in the morning and reheat it briefly before adding toppings.
- If you double the recipe, work in batches under the broiler to avoid uneven melting.
Save This tartine has become my go to when I want something that feels like a treat but doesn't require a recipe or a plan. It's one of those dishes that reminds me that good food doesn't have to be complicated, just honest and made with care.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
It's best served fresh and warm, but you can prep components separately. Toast bread and mash avocado up to 2 hours ahead, then assemble and broil just before serving to ensure the mozzarella melts perfectly.
- → What type of avocado works best?
Choose a ripe avocado that yields slightly to gentle pressure. Hass avocados are ideal for their creamy texture and rich flavor. If your avocado is too firm, you can ripen it in a paper bag at room temperature for a day or two.
- → Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely. Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully, but you can substitute with burrata, fontina, or even a sharp cheddar. Each will bring different flavor notes to your tartine.
- → How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
Toast the bread until crisp and golden to create a barrier against moisture. Assemble just before broiling, and avoid over-mashing the avocado to minimize excess liquid.
- → What are good toppings to add?
Fresh basil, sliced cherry tomatoes, arugula, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, microgreens, or crispy prosciutto all complement this dish wonderfully. A poached egg transforms it into a heartier meal.
- → Is this suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes. Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free version, or dairy-free cheese alternatives for dairy-free. It's naturally vegetarian and easily adaptable to various dietary needs.