Michael Symon's Eggs in Avocado with Tomato and Basil

Made this up for a fun weekend breakfast --it would be even better as a warm summer breakfast!

2 Avocados

Kosher Salt and freshly ground Black Pepper

4 tablespoons Olive Oil

4 large Eggs

1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved)

1/2 cup fresh Basil leaves (torn)

1 Lime (grated zest and juice)

 

Put a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

 

Halve each avocado lengthwise. Peel and pit the halves. Using a spoon, scoop out some of the avocado where the pits were to form a donut hole that goes clear through each half. Lay the avocados out on a cutting board, top with plastic wrap, and gently press down to slightly flatten the pieces. The idea is to make thick but flat slices, each with a hole in the center. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

 

To the preheated pan, add 2 tablespoons of the olive oil. Add the avocado slices cut-sides down and cook until they begin to brown, about 1 minute. Flip the avocados and carefully crack 1 egg into each hole. Season the eggs with salt and pepper. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and cook until the egg whites have set up but the yolks are still runny, about 3 minutes.

 

Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, mix together the tomatoes, basil, lime zest and juice, and remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. 

 

Top each avocado and egg with some tomato salad and serve.

Helpful Tip:
1. Cooking an avocado that’s slightly under-ripe makes it more flavorful.