It was only a few years ago when just an ordinary piece of toast topped with gently smashed avocado became the rage. You’ll find it now on menus across the country from small cafes to upscale restaurants. Everyone seems to have created their own version by using an alphabetical listing of edibles including everything from artichokes and micro greens to tomatoes and tarragon for appeal. My approach tends to be more simplistic in style.
An early morning harvest from my edible garden provides a seasonally fresh selection of blossoms, greens, herbs and vegetables. On Saturday mornings from April until November a visit to our local farmer’s market gives me additional options. Here are a few delicious suggestions that my husband and I have recently enjoyed but be creative with your choices because any combination that pleases your palate is a winner.
Springtime
*Thinly Sliced French Breakfast Radishes, Onion Chives and Nasturtium Blossoms
*Broccoli Florets, Arugula and Mrs. Taylor’s Scented Pelargonium Blossoms
*Thinly Sliced Carrots Topped with Caraway Sprigs
*Swiss Chard Perpetual Spinach and Nepitella Blossoms
Summertime
*Sliced East Texas Peaches and French Tarragon
*Campari Tomatoes Sprinkled with Chopped Balsamic Blooms Basil Leaves
*Sliced East Texas Peaches, Sweet Banana Peppers and Purple Basil
*Armenian Cucumbers with Salad Burnet and Watercress
Avocado toast is something we enjoy for breakfast, brunch, lunch and as a delightful appetizer. For a light summer dinner we often serve it alongside homemade gazpacho or chilled cucumber soup. Our goal is simply to use garden fresh ingredients! The only exception is when I’ve made a visit to purchase fresh eggs from my master gardener friend who raises chickens at her ranch. A delicately fried egg sitting on top makes for a very scrumptious breakfast experience.
**Additional edibles from summer’s bounty will include anise hyssop blossoms, blueberries, shaved yellow crooked neck and zucchini squash, onions, jalapeno and shishito peppers. To complete the flavor kick be sure to consider a sprinkling of these herbs; anise, dill, fennel, lovage, mint, papalo, pipicha, lemon thyme and rosemary or any of your personal favorites.
Linda Alexander, Dallas County Master Gardener Class of 2008
DALLAS GARDEN BUZZ 