Berries & Basil Cream Cheese Toast: A Refreshing Summer Delight

Name: Berries & Basil Cream Cheese Toast
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/3 cup non-fat cream cheese; 2 teaspoons pure honey; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1/4 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 slices whole-wheat rustic French bread; 1/4 cup raspberries, cut in 1/2 lengthwise; 1/4 cup blackberries, cut in 1/2 lengthwise

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a refreshing and nutritious breakfast or snack, Berries & Basil Cream Cheese Toast is the perfect choice. This dish combines the natural sweetness of berries with the savory touch of basil, all atop a crispy slice of whole-wheat bread. It’s a simple, quick, and healthy option that will brighten your mornings. Plus, with seasonal ingredients like fresh basil and berries, this toast brings a burst of flavors and a dose of antioxidants that you can feel good about. Whether you’re planning a summer brunch or need a quick snack, this recipe has you covered!

Why You’ll Love Berries & Basil Cream Cheese Toast

This Berries & Basil Cream Cheese Toast is a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. The combination of creamy non-fat cream cheese, fresh basil, and juicy berries creates a delicious topping for crispy, toasted bread. Not only is this toast full of flavor, but it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. Whole-wheat bread offers fiber, basil provides antioxidants, and berries add a natural sweetness. Plus, it’s quick to make, with prep and cook time totaling just 10 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings.

Ingredients

For this Berries & Basil Cream Cheese Toast, you’ll need:

• Non-fat cream cheese: Adds a creamy texture and is a lower-fat option.
• Pure honey: Provides a touch of natural sweetness.
• Lemon zest: Adds a fresh, tangy flavor that enhances the berries.
• Fresh basil: Offers an aromatic, savory component with antioxidants.
• Olive oil: Used to toast the bread for a golden, crispy finish.
• Whole-wheat rustic French bread: A hearty base that adds fiber and a nutty flavor.
• Raspberries and blackberries: These berries add a sweet, juicy bite and are packed with vitamins.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to make this recipe your own, here are a few alternatives:

• Vegan cream cheese: Swap the non-fat cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
• Agave syrup: If you’re looking for a lower glycemic index option, try using agave syrup instead of honey.
• Gluten-free bread: For those with gluten sensitivities, use your favorite gluten-free bread in place of the whole-wheat version.
• Strawberries or blueberries: Feel free to substitute the raspberries and blackberries with other seasonal berries for a new flavor twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Berries & Basil Cream Cheese Toast is simple and quick. Follow these easy steps:

In a mixing bowl, combine the non-fat cream cheese, honey, lemon zest, and 3 tablespoons of chopped basil. Whip on high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, place the slices of whole-wheat French bread in the skillet.
Toast each side of the bread until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet once toasted.
Spread the whipped cream cheese mixture evenly on each slice of toasted bread, about 1 tablespoon per slice.
Top the cream cheese with halved raspberries and blackberries. Sprinkle the remaining fresh basil over the top.
Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh and delicious Berries & Basil Cream Cheese Toast!

Tips & Tricks

Here are some tips to make your Berries & Basil Cream Cheese Toast even better:

• Toast the bread thoroughly: Make sure the bread is golden brown and crisp before adding the cream cheese mixture. This ensures the toast holds up well with the toppings.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter toast, you can drizzle a bit more honey over the top before serving.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil gives a much more vibrant flavor than dried. If possible, use freshly chopped basil for the best results.
• Leftovers: If you have leftover whipped cream cheese, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It makes a great spread for other types of toast or crackers.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

If you’re looking for side dishes or variations to go with your Berries & Basil Cream Cheese Toast, here are a few ideas:

• Side salad: Pair this toast with a fresh green salad for a well-rounded breakfast or light lunch.
• Greek yogurt: Serve a bowl of Greek yogurt on the side for extra protein and creaminess.
• Spicy twist: Add a dash of chili flakes to the cream cheese mixture for a hint of heat that complements the sweet berries.
• Make-ahead options: Prepare the whipped cream cheese mixture the night before, so your breakfast toast is ready in a flash.

A Perfect Summer Dish

Berries & Basil Cream Cheese Toast is ideal for the summer months when both berries and basil are in season. The fresh, vibrant flavors not only make this toast a seasonal favorite but also provide a healthy and energizing breakfast. Whether enjoyed on a lazy weekend or as a quick snack, this toast is a versatile option for any summer day.

By incorporating fresh, seasonal ingredients like basil and berries, this recipe doesn’t just taste good – it’s a healthy choice too. Whole-wheat bread adds fiber, while the berries and basil deliver antioxidants that are great for your health. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy mornings or mid-day cravings. Enjoy!

Conclusion

In summary, Berries & Basil Cream Cheese Toast is the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it an ideal breakfast or snack for any occasion. With fresh berries, fragrant basil, and creamy non-fat cream cheese, this dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides essential nutrients and antioxidants. The recipe is quick and easy to make, requiring only 10 minutes of your time, making it a go-to choice for busy mornings. Whether you enjoy it as a light breakfast or a mid-morning snack, this delightful toast will add a refreshing touch to your day.

Don’t hesitate to try different variations to make it your own, and enjoy the delicious combination of seasonal ingredients that come together in this simple yet flavorful dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use regular cream cheese instead of non-fat cream cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can use regular cream cheese instead of non-fat cream cheese. However, using non-fat cream cheese helps to reduce the calorie and fat content, making the dish a healthier option. If you prefer the richer taste of full-fat cream cheese, feel free to substitute it, but keep in mind the difference in texture and flavor.

2. Can I make the Berries & Basil Cream Cheese Toast ahead of time?

While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the whipped cream cheese mixture in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, toast the bread, spread the cream cheese, and top with berries and basil. This makes it a quick and convenient breakfast option for busy mornings.

3. Is Berries & Basil Cream Cheese Toast suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free bread instead of whole-wheat rustic French bread. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it easy to customize this dish to suit your dietary needs.

More Relevant Recipes