California Avocado Monte Cristo

California Avocado Monte Cristo Recipe: The Ultimate Food Delight

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

The California Avocado Monte Cristo is a delicious twist on the classic Monte Cristo sandwich, featuring creamy avocado, roasted turkey, and jack cheese sandwiched between slices of white bread. This recipe is perfect for a special brunch or lunch, and is sure to impress your guests with its unique flavors.

History

The Monte Cristo sandwich is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century, and has since become a popular dish in many restaurants and homes. The addition of California avocados to the traditional recipe adds a fresh and creamy element that takes this sandwich to the next level.

Ingredients

0.75 cup garlic mayonnaise (aioli)
24 slices firm white sandwich bread
6 california avocados (3 lb (1.36 kg))
48 one-ounce slices sliced roasted chicken or turkey (3 lb (1.36 kg))
24 one-ounce slices sliced jalapeño jack cheese
16 eggs, beaten
1 cup milk
1 tsp salt
unsalted butter, as needed
3 cup fresh fruit salsa of choice
12 fresh cilantro sprigs

How to prepare

Spread 0.5 tbsp of garlic mayonnaise on one side of each slice of bread.
Cover 12 slices of bread with avocado slices.
Top each with 2 slices of Chicken or Turkey and 1 slice of Cheese.
Cover each with the remaining slice of bread, spread-side down, and diagonally cut each in half.
Reserve.
Beat together 1 egg, 0.25 cup of milk, and a pinch of salt; reserve.
Dip 2 halves of a sandwich in the egg mixture, coating well.
Brown in hot butter, about 2 minutes per side.
Serve with 0.25 cup of fresh fruit salsa.
Garnish with a cilantro sprig.

Variations

You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients, such as bacon, tomato slices, or arugula. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Swiss, to create a unique and delicious flavor combination.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To make the perfect California Avocado Monte Cristo, be sure to use ripe avocados that are slightly firm to the touch. You can also customize this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients, such as bacon or tomato slices. Be sure to cook the sandwiches in batches to ensure they are cooked evenly and to prevent overcrowding in the pan.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the California Avocado Monte Cristo with a side of fresh fruit salad or a mixed green salad for a complete and balanced meal. You can also pair this sandwich with a cup of soup or a side of sweet potato fries for a hearty and satisfying lunch.

Cooking Techniques

To make the perfect California Avocado Monte Cristo, be sure to cook the sandwiches in batches and brown them in hot butter for a crispy and golden crust. Be sure to dip the sandwiches in the egg mixture and coat them well before cooking to ensure they are cooked evenly and have a delicious texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you have dietary restrictions or food allergies, you can make substitutions in this recipe to accommodate your needs. You can use gluten-free bread or dairy-free cheese to make this recipe gluten-free or dairy-free. You can also use a vegan mayonnaise or egg substitute to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the California Avocado Monte Cristo sandwiches ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Simply assemble the sandwiches, dip them in the egg mixture, and store them in an airtight container until you are ready to cook them.

Presentation Ideas

To make this dish even more visually appealing, you can garnish the sandwiches with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, before serving. You can also serve the sandwiches on a platter with a side of fresh salsa or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant and gourmet presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

The California Avocado Monte Cristo pairs well with a variety of beverages, such as iced tea, lemonade, or a glass of white wine. You can also serve this sandwich with a side of pickles or olives for a tangy and flavorful accompaniment.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

You can store any leftover California Avocado Monte Cristo sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat the sandwiches, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of the California Avocado Monte Cristo contains approximately 500 calories. This sandwich is a satisfying and filling meal that is perfect for a special occasion or weekend brunch.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of the California Avocado Monte Cristo contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body, and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied after enjoying this delicious sandwich.

Fats

This recipe is rich in healthy fats, with each serving containing approximately 25 grams of fat. The avocado, mayonnaise, and cheese in this sandwich provide a good source of monounsaturated fats, which can help support heart health and reduce inflammation in the body.

Proteins

The California Avocado Monte Cristo is a good source of protein, with each serving containing approximately 20 grams. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied after enjoying this hearty sandwich.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and potassium. Avocados are a nutrient-dense fruit that provide a good source of these essential nutrients, which can help support overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs, milk, and wheat, which are common allergens. Be sure to check for any food allergies or sensitivities before preparing this dish, and make any necessary substitutions to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Summary

Overall, the California Avocado Monte Cristo is a delicious and nutritious sandwich that is perfect for a special occasion or weekend brunch. With a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds and keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Summary

The California Avocado Monte Cristo is a delicious and nutritious sandwich that is perfect for a special occasion or weekend brunch. With a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds and keep you feeling full and satisfied. Enjoy this unique twist on the classic Monte Cristo sandwich with your family and friends for a memorable and delicious meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day, and I had just returned from a trip to California to visit my dear friend Sarah. She had invited me to stay with her for a few days, and I was thrilled to spend some quality time catching up and exploring the beautiful state.

On my last day there, Sarah surprised me with a homemade brunch that she had been raving about. She called it a California Avocado Monte Cristo, and I had never heard of anything like it before. As she served me a plate piled high with layers of avocado, turkey, cheese, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, I couldn't help but be intrigued by the unique combination of flavors.

The first bite was a revelation. The creamy avocado paired perfectly with the savory turkey and melted cheese, while the hint of sweetness from the powdered sugar added an unexpected twist. I was instantly hooked and begged Sarah to share the recipe with me.

She laughed and told me that it was a family secret, passed down from her grandmother to her mother and now to her. But after some coaxing and promises to keep it safe, she relented and wrote it down for me on a little yellowed index card.

I treasured that recipe card like it was a priceless heirloom, carefully tucking it away in my recipe box when I returned home. Over the years, I perfected the art of making the California Avocado Monte Cristo, tweaking the ingredients and proportions until I had created my own version that was just as delicious as Sarah's.

The secret, I discovered, was in the quality of the ingredients. I made sure to use ripe California avocados, thinly sliced turkey breast, a sharp white cheddar cheese, and freshly baked sourdough bread. And of course, a generous dusting of powdered sugar on top for that extra touch of sweetness.

As I shared the recipe with friends and family, it became a staple in my kitchen, especially for special occasions and brunch gatherings. Everyone who tried it raved about the unique flavors and textures, and I loved watching their faces light up with delight as they took their first bite.

But it wasn't just about the taste of the California Avocado Monte Cristo that made it special to me. It was about the memories it evoked of my time in California with Sarah, the laughter we shared, and the bond we formed over a simple meal.

As I sit down to enjoy a homemade California Avocado Monte Cristo with my family, I can't help but feel grateful for the recipe that brought us all together. The flavors and aromas fill the air, transporting me back to that sunny day in California when I first discovered this culinary gem.

And as I take a bite and savor the creamy avocado, savory turkey, and melted cheese, I know that this recipe will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the power of good food and good friends.