Plain butter or peanut butter on toast is fine, but why stop there? Today’s health and food trends are all about adding flavor, nutrition, and a creative twist to your meals. With just the right spread, your humble slice of bread can transform into a powerhouse of taste and good-for-you ingredients. Here are five healthy spreads to take your toast game to the next level—and how to use them in ways that might just make breakfast (or snacks) the highlight of your day.
1. Avocado Mash
Avocado toast isn’t just a millennial cliché—it’s a nutritional superstar. Packed with heart-healthy fats, fiber, and essential vitamins like K, C, and E, avocado mash is creamy and filling.
How to Use It Creatively: Smash a ripe avocado with a squeeze of lemon or lime juice, salt, and a pinch of chili flakes for a simple spread. Feeling fancy? Top your avo-toast with a soft-boiled egg, fresh arugula, or even a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning!
2. Hummus
Made from chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and spices, hummus is rich in protein and fiber, keeping you full for hours. Plus, it’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors, which are super trendy in the world of healthy eating.
How to Use It Creatively: Spread hummus on whole-grain toast and top it with roasted red peppers, cucumber slices, or a handful of microgreens. For a sweet and savory twist, try drizzling a bit of honey or pomegranate molasses.
3. Almond Butter
Sure, peanut butter gets all the love, but almond butter is stealing the spotlight for its high Vitamin E content, magnesium, and smoother, nuttier flavor. It’s a perfect swap for keeping things healthy and low in sugar if you go for the unsweetened kind.
How to Use It Creatively: Spread almond butter generously over your toast and add sliced bananas or thinly sliced apples. Sprinkle with chia or hemp seeds for an extra nutrient kick. A drizzle of honey or a dash of cinnamon can elevate the flavor even more!
4. Greek Yogurt Spread
If you want something creamy but lighter than cream cheese, Greek yogurt is your toast’s new best friend. It’s full of protein, probiotics, and calcium to support your muscles and gut health.
How to Use It Creatively: Spread plain Greek yogurt on your toast and add a layer of fresh berries or a sprinkle of granola for a parfait-inspired vibe. Prefer savory? Mix the yogurt with fresh dill, lemon juice, and garlic for a tangy spread that pairs well with smoked salmon.
5. Nut-Free Seed Butter
For those with nut allergies—or just looking for new flavors—seed butters like sunbutter (from sunflower seeds) or pumpkin seed butter are nutrient-rich alternatives. These spreads are loaded with healthy fats, protein, and minerals like magnesium and zinc.
How to Use It Creatively: Spread seed butter on toast and top with dried cranberries or shredded coconut for a fun snack. You can also go savory by adding thinly sliced radishes and a sprinkle of flaky salt.
While these spreads bring different flavors and health benefits to the table, they all share one thing in common—they’re proof that toast doesn’t have to be boring. Next time you’re staring at an empty slice of bread, think beyond the basics and try one (or all!) of these next-level options.
Now it’s your turn! Experiment, get creative, and find combos that you can’t wait to share. Snap a picture of your masterpiece and share it online with your foodie friends. After all, the toast game is one trend worth spreading!