There is something truly magical about waking up to a vibrant and hearty dish that instantly lifts your spirits, and that is exactly why this Shakshuka with Feta & Avocado Salad Recipe has become one of my all-time favorites. It’s a flawless marriage of richly spiced tomato sauce, perfectly poached eggs, creamy feta cheese, and a bright, refreshing avocado salad on the side. The colors alone will delight your eyes, but the real joy is in how each bite bursts with warmth and freshness, making it an irresistible meal whether for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dinner. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly secure a cherished spot in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Shakshuka with Feta & Avocado Salad Recipe keeps things beautifully simple, yet each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the earthy spices to the creamy avocado, every component contributes something special.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: The perfect base to sauté your veggies, adding subtle richness and depth to the sauce.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Provides sweetness and a tender texture when softened.
- 1 red bell pepper (diced): Adds a subtle crunch and vibrant color to brighten the shakshuka.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses aromatic warmth and savory notes to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Gives that signature earthy spice that’s essential for authentic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika: Delivers smoky sweetness and a beautiful red hue.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A gentle kick of heat to balance the sauce’s sweetness.
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes: The rich, tangy foundation of the sauce, filling every bite with lush tomato goodness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors harmoniously.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle punch of spice.
- 4–6 large eggs: The crowning glory, poached gently in the sauce for luscious, runny yolks.
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: Crumbled on top for creamy, salty bursts that contrast beautifully with the tomatoes.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Provides freshness and a pop of green that livens up the dish.
- 2 ripe avocados (diced): The star ingredient in the salad, adding creaminess and healthy fats.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved): Bring sweetness and juiciness to the avocado salad.
- 1/4 small red onion (thinly sliced): Offers a mild tang and crunch in the salad.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Brightens the salad with zesty freshness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps marry all the salad ingredients together with silky smoothness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to balance the flavors in the salad perfectly.
How to Make Shakshuka with Feta & Avocado Salad Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by warming the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, then cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes until they’re tender and start to caramelize. This step is crucial because it forms the flavorful base for your sauce, allowing the sweetness from the veggies to shine through and complement the spices.
Step 2: Build the Spice Layer
Next, stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, sweet paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Cook everything together for about a minute until the garlic is fragrant and the spices bloom. This quick step wakes up those spices, releasing their vibrant aromas and deepening the flavor foundation of your shakshuka.
Step 3: Simmer the Tomato Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then season with salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken slightly during this time, intensifying the robust tomato flavor and creating the perfect environment to nestle your eggs into.
Step 4: Poach the Eggs
Using the back of a spoon, gently create small wells in the sauce for each egg. Crack each egg carefully into its own well, then cover the skillet with a lid. Let the eggs cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, just until the whites are set but the yolks remain deliciously runny. This is where the magic happens — those rich yolks mingle with the sauce when you break them open, elevating the whole experience.
Step 5: Add Feta and Parsley
Remove the skillet from heat and generously sprinkle crumbled feta cheese all over the top, followed by a shower of chopped fresh parsley. The salty, creamy feta adds contrast to the acidity of the tomatoes, while the parsley brings a fresh, herbal brightness that makes every bite sing.
Step 6: Prepare the Avocado Salad
While the shakshuka simmers, toss together diced ripe avocados, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, fresh lemon juice, and olive oil in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper, then gently combine to maintain the creaminess of the avocados and the juiciness of the tomatoes. This salad offers a cool, crisp counterpart to the warm, spiced shakshuka.
How to Serve Shakshuka with Feta & Avocado Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For a final flourish, I love adding a few extra parsley sprigs or even some fresh cilantro if you have it on hand. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of smoky paprika on the eggs elevates the presentation and adds a subtle flavor boost. Don’t forget freshly cracked black pepper for a tiny peppery zip.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with crusty bread or warm pita to scoop up every last bit of the luscious sauce and creamy yolk. If you want to add more greens, a side of sautéed spinach or a simple cucumber and radish salad makes a refreshing match.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining, consider serving the shakshuka in individual mini skillets or shallow baking dishes — it makes for an inviting and rustic presentation. For a fun twist, spread the avocado salad on toasted bread and serve alongside the shakshuka for a delightful layered bite. The combination of textures and colors will wow your guests every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can refrigerate any leftover shakshuka in an airtight container for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that the eggs may continue cooking slightly in the residual heat, so storing the sauce and poached eggs separately when possible can help maintain the runny yolks and fresh textures.
Freezing
While the tomato sauce freezes beautifully, the eggs do not hold up well to freezing, as their texture can become rubbery when reheated. For best results, freeze the sauce alone in portioned containers and add fresh eggs when you’re ready to enjoy the dish again.
Reheating
Reheat the sauce gently on the stove over medium-low heat until warmed through. If you have leftover eggs, it’s best to poach fresh eggs right before serving to recreate that perfect shakshuka experience. The avocado salad should always be kept fresh and served cold or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I make this Shakshuka with Feta & Avocado Salad Recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the eggs and feta cheese, and consider adding extra veggies or some tofu for protein. You can also use vegan cheese alternatives to keep the creamy, tangy component.
What if I don’t have crushed tomatoes?
You can substitute with canned whole peeled tomatoes that you crush by hand or with a spoon. Fresh ripe tomatoes blended in a food processor can also work, but the canned version adds more consistent texture and flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to the shakshuka?
Definitely! Spinach, kale, or even zucchini can be stirred in with the sauce to add more nutrition and color. Just add them toward the end of the simmering process to keep them vibrant and slightly tender.
What type of bread pairs best with this recipe?
Crusty baguette, sourdough, or warm pita bread all make fantastic companions for this shakshuka because they’re sturdy enough to scoop up sauce and rich egg yolks without falling apart.
How do I know when the eggs are perfectly cooked?
The egg whites should be fully set and firm around the edges, while the yolks remain runny and slightly soft to the touch. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes with the skillet covered, but keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Final Thoughts
If you want to bring something fresh, comforting, and absolutely flavorful to your table, this Shakshuka with Feta & Avocado Salad Recipe is a guaranteed winner. From its warm spiced tomato base to the creamy feta and cool avocado salad, every element has been crafted for joy in every bite. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and prepare to fall in love with a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate!
