Heat a heavy skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush both sides of the sourdough slices lightly with 1 tbs olive oil (or spread 1 tsp softened butter if using). Toast for 1–2 minutes per side until deeply golden and crisp with charred edges. Transfer to a plate.

Avocado Spread

Halve the avocado, remove the pit and scoop flesh into a bowl. Add 1 tsp lemon juice, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Mash with a fork until mostly smooth but slightly chunky. Taste and adjust seasoning. Keep covered with a little plastic wrap until ready to assemble to prevent browning.

Poached Eggs

Bring 1000 ml (about 4 cups) of water to a gentle simmer in a medium saucepan. Add 1 tbs white vinegar. Reduce heat so the surface is barely moving (small bubbles).

Crack one egg into a small ramekin or cup. Create a gentle whirlpool in the water with a spoon and slip the egg into the center. Poach 3 minutes for a runny yolk or 3.5–4 minutes for slightly firmer. Repeat with the second egg. Use a slotted spoon to lift eggs and drain briefly on paper towels. Season with a pinch (about 1/8 tsp) of fine salt.

Vegetables & Salad

Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and thinly slice the 1/4 red onion. In a small bowl, toss the tomatoes, red onion and 1 cup arugula with 1 tsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp balsamic vinegar, 1/8 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp pepper. Let sit while you finish the toast so flavors meld slightly.

Cheese & Finishing

Assemble: Spread half of the mashed avocado evenly over each toasted sourdough slice. Crumble 1 tbsp goat cheese over each slice, leaving some texture.

Top each toast with a generous spoonful of the arugula-tomato-onion salad, arranging tomatoes on top so juices mingle with avocado.

Place one warm poached egg on each toast. Drizzle about 1/2 tbs (half of the measured balsamic reduction) over each assembled toast. Finish with a few microgreens or extra arugula if using, and a crack of fresh black pepper.

Serve immediately so the toast remains crisp where not under the egg. Optional: pass extra balsamic reduction at the table.