Pistachio Spread Toast with Fresh Berries

Instructions

1. 1

   Select your bread: Choose a good quality sourdough with an open crumb structure and chewy texture. The slight tanginess of sourdough beautifully complements the sweet pistachio spread. Cut slices about 2cm (¾ inch) thick - thick enough to stay sturdy under the toppings.

2. 2

   Prepare the berries: Wash the strawberries and blueberries gently under cold running water. Pat them completely dry with paper towels - wet berries will make your toast soggy. Hull the strawberries by removing the green tops, then slice them lengthwise into pieces about 3-4mm thick.

3. 3

   Toast the bread: Place the sourdough slices in a toaster or under a broiler/grill. Toast until golden brown with slightly darkened edges and a crispy exterior, about 2-3 minutes in a toaster on medium-high setting. The toast should be crispy enough to provide contrast but not so dark that it tastes burnt.

4. 4

   Work while the toast is hot: Immediately transfer the hot toast to a cutting board or serving plate. Working quickly is essential - the warmth of the toast will slightly soften the pistachio spread, making it easier to spread and releasing its aromatic oils.

5. 5

   Apply the Pistasho spread generously: Spoon approximately 1½ tablespoons of Pistasho pistachio spread onto each slice of warm toast. Using the back of the spoon or a butter knife, spread it evenly across the entire surface in smooth, even strokes. Spread all the way to the edges - every bite should have pistachio flavor.

6. 6

   Layer the strawberries: Arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the pistachio spread in a single layer. Overlap them slightly like fallen dominos or shingles, working from one side to the other. This creates an attractive pattern and ensures even distribution.

7. 7

   Add the blueberries: Scatter the blueberries over and around the strawberries, filling in gaps and adding height variation. Gently press them slightly into the pistachio spread so they stay in place. The color contrast between red and blue is visually appealing.

8. 8

   Drizzle with honey: Hold your honey jar or squeeze bottle about 15-20cm (6-8 inches) above the toast. Drizzle the honey in thin, even lines moving back and forth across the toast. The height helps create delicate streams rather than thick globs. Alternatively, use date syrup for a caramel-like flavor.

9. 9

   Add the finishing touches: If using chia seeds, pinch small amounts between your fingers and sprinkle them evenly over the toast. The seeds add subtle crunch and nutritional benefits. Add a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt if desired - it enhances all the sweet flavors.

10. 10

    Garnish with mint: Take the fresh mint leaves and tear them gently into smaller pieces, or leave small leaves whole. Scatter them over the toast as a final garnish. The mint adds freshness and a beautiful pop of green color.

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    Serve immediately: This toast is best enjoyed right away while the bread is still warm and crispy, creating a wonderful contrast with the cool berries and creamy pistachio spread. Cut diagonally for easier handling if desired. The textures begin to change after 5-10 minutes as the toast absorbs moisture.

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    Optional presentation: For a special brunch presentation, serve on a wooden board with a small bowl of extra berries on the side and a light dusting of powdered sugar over everything.