Two luscious slices of toasted sourdough topped with creamy mashed avocado, silky smoked salmon, and perfectly poached eggs. Everything is finished with a velvety hollandaise and a sprinkle of chives—this dish brings indulgence to your brunch table without overwhelming effort.
Perfect for weekend mornings when you want something special yet accessible, this recipe shines with fresh, vibrant flavors and elegant presentation. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, it’s a luxurious twist on breakfast that delivers every time.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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4 large eggs
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2 tbsp white vinegar
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2 slices sourdough bread
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1 ripe avocado
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4 oz smoked salmon
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
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Pinch of salt and pepper
Directions:
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Begin by preparing hollandaise: whisk together 2 egg yolks, 1 tsp lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a heatproof bowl.
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Place over simmering water (double boiler) and slowly drizzle in 2 tbsp melted butter, whisking constantly until thick and glossy. Remove from heat and keep warm.
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Toast sourdough slices until golden.
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Halve and pit the avocado, mash with lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Spread on toasted sourdough.
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Poach eggs: bring water and vinegar to a gentle simmer, crack eggs in individually, cook 3 min for runny yolks. Remove with slotted spoon.
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Assemble: layer smoked salmon over avocado toast, top each with a poached egg. Spoon warm hollandaise over each.
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Garnish with chopped chives, cracked black pepper, and an optional lemon wedge.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Kcal: ~450 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
A Luxurious Brunch Classic: Smoked Salmon & Avocado Eggs Benedict on Sourdough
The Smoked Salmon & Avocado Eggs Benedict on Sourdough is a recipe that represents the perfect marriage between indulgent flavors and nourishing ingredients. It’s a modern twist on the traditional Eggs Benedict, replacing ham with silky smoked salmon and adding the creamy richness of ripe avocado. All of this is layered over a hearty slice of sourdough, making it a brunch staple that feels as decadent as it is wholesome.
This dish stands out for its ability to elevate a weekend morning into something special. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet moment for yourself, the textures and flavors in every bite create a satisfying, gourmet experience. The contrast between the crunchy toast, smooth avocado, rich salmon, perfectly poached eggs, and velvety hollandaise sauce is nothing short of culinary harmony.
The Evolution of Eggs Benedict
Eggs Benedict has long been a favorite of brunch menus around the world, dating back to the 19th century. Traditionally made with English muffins, poached eggs, Canadian bacon, and hollandaise sauce, the recipe has undergone countless variations to suit changing tastes and dietary preferences.
The modern version with smoked salmon and avocado is one of the most beloved adaptations. This updated take not only brings a burst of color and freshness to the plate but also introduces healthy fats, omega-3s, and a more complex flavor profile. It’s a dish that honors tradition while embracing innovation—a perfect representation of today’s food culture.
Why Smoked Salmon and Avocado Work So Well Together
The combination of smoked salmon and avocado has become iconic in contemporary cuisine. Smoked salmon offers a delicate saltiness and a silky texture, while avocado adds richness and creaminess. Together, they balance each other out beautifully. When paired with the tangy brightness of hollandaise and the slight sourness of toasted sourdough, every bite becomes a layered symphony of taste and mouthfeel.
Nutritionally, this duo also packs a punch. Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats, potassium, and fiber, while smoked salmon delivers high-quality protein and essential fatty acids like omega-3s, which are beneficial for heart and brain health.
The Role of Sourdough in the Dish
Sourdough bread is the ideal base for this dish. Its slightly tangy flavor complements the richness of the toppings without overpowering them. It also provides a rustic, artisanal quality that makes the plate feel thoughtfully crafted. The crispy edges and chewy center of toasted sourdough create the perfect contrast to the soft, creamy ingredients layered on top.
From a health standpoint, sourdough is often more digestible than other bread due to its fermentation process, which breaks down gluten and phytic acid. This makes it a great choice for those who are mildly gluten-sensitive or simply prefer more natural breads.
Hollandaise: The Velvety Crown
Hollandaise sauce is one of the five “mother sauces” of classical French cuisine, and it plays a pivotal role in making this dish feel luxurious. Its silky, buttery texture ties all the ingredients together with a hint of lemony brightness. Though it might seem intimidating to make, it only takes a few simple ingredients and a steady hand. Once you master it, hollandaise becomes a staple that elevates everything from eggs to steamed vegetables.
For this particular recipe, the hollandaise works in tandem with the avocado and salmon to create a depth of flavor that feels both rich and refreshing. It’s what transforms this from a simple toast into a brunch masterpiece.
Perfecting the Poached Egg
The poached egg is the crown jewel of this recipe. When done right, it provides that iconic runny yolk that cascades over the salmon and avocado, melding with the hollandaise to form a golden sauce. Achieving the perfect poach takes some practice, but the technique is worth mastering. It’s a healthy alternative to frying, and it keeps the egg’s texture light and airy.
In terms of taste, the poached egg adds an essential layer of richness, binding all the components together. Visually, it offers that dramatic moment when you cut into the egg and the yolk spills out—an effect that’s Instagram-worthy and deeply satisfying to eat.
A Balanced Meal That Feels Like a Treat
One of the best aspects of the Smoked Salmon & Avocado Eggs Benedict on Sourdough is how it straddles the line between comfort food and clean eating. While it certainly feels indulgent, it’s actually composed of nutrient-rich ingredients that fuel your body. You’re getting healthy fats, quality protein, complex carbs, and a variety of vitamins and minerals—all in one aesthetically pleasing dish.
Unlike sugary breakfast pastries or heavy diner fare, this recipe keeps you energized without the crash. It’s an ideal meal for a productive day ahead or a lazy Sunday where you just want to savor something special.
Entertaining with Style
If you’re hosting a brunch gathering, this dish makes a stunning centerpiece. Its colorful layers and elegant plating options give it a wow-factor that will impress guests without requiring hours of prep. You can prep parts of it ahead of time, like mashing the avocado or slicing the salmon, and then quickly poach eggs and make hollandaise as guests arrive.
For a more casual setting, serve it open-faced with a simple side salad or fresh fruit. For something more upscale, garnish with microgreens, capers, or even a touch of truffle oil. It’s versatile, elegant, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Customization Tips
One of the strengths of this recipe lies in how easily it can be adapted to dietary needs or personal taste preferences:
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free sourdough or swap with a gluten-free English muffin.
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Dairy-Free: Make a dairy-free hollandaise using vegan butter or skip it entirely in favor of a drizzle of lemon-infused olive oil.
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Spicy Twist: Add a touch of sriracha or chili flakes to the avocado mash.
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Extra Veggies: Layer in sautéed spinach, arugula, or sliced tomatoes for added nutrients and freshness.
You can even switch the protein if you’re not a fan of salmon. Thinly sliced turkey, prosciutto, or grilled tofu all make excellent substitutes.
Why It Belongs on Your Menu
This recipe is the kind that earns a permanent spot in your weekend rotation. It’s quick enough to whip up without stress but impressive enough to serve at a special event. It brings together so many textures and flavors that each bite feels exciting and deeply satisfying.
Plus, it’s easy to make for just one person or scale up for a group, making it ideal for everything from solo self-care meals to celebratory brunches.
Conclusion: A Toast Worth Celebrating
Smoked Salmon & Avocado Eggs Benedict on Sourdough is more than just a brunch dish—it’s an experience. It captures the essence of comfort and sophistication in one beautifully plated meal. From the nourishing qualities of avocado and salmon to the decadence of poached eggs and hollandaise, every component contributes to a balanced and deeply flavorful creation.
This is the kind of recipe that feels like a restaurant-level indulgence but can be made right at home. It offers elegance without being overly complicated, and satisfaction without guilt. Whether you’re new to poaching eggs or already a brunch connoisseur, this dish delivers on every level—flavor, texture, nutrition, and presentation.
Bring it into your kitchen and let your mornings feel just a bit more luxurious.