Save The first time I made smashed pea toast, I was halfway through cooking dinner and realized I had nothing substantial on hand but a bag of frozen peas and some leftover chicken. What started as a desperate pantry cleanout became the kind of meal I now crave on purpose. The way the creamy peas contrast with crisp bread still feels like a small revelation every time I take that first bite.
Last spring, my sister came over for an impromptu lunch and I made these toasts while we talked at the kitchen counter. She was skeptical about the pea combination until she took her first bite, then proceeded to ask for the recipe three times before she left. Now she makes them for her kids who call them green monster toast.
Ingredients
- Rustic bread slices: Sourdough or country loaf holds up beautifully against the creamy topping without getting soggy
- Frozen peas: Thawed just enough to mash easily, they create the most vibrant base
- Extra virgin olive oil: This adds richness and helps bind the pea mixture together
- Fresh lemon juice: Brightens everything and cuts through the creamy chicken
- Cooked chicken breast: Rotisserie chicken works perfectly here, or use any leftover shredded chicken
- Chili flakes: Just enough heat to make things interesting without overwhelming
- Fresh mint or parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness that makes the dish sing
Instructions
- Get your bread ready:
- Toast those thick slices until they are golden and give a satisfying crunch when you tap them
- Make the pea base:
- Mash the thawed peas with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until you have a chunky spreadable mixture
- Add the chicken:
- Gently fold your shredded chicken into the smashed peas until everything is well combined
- Assemble the toasts:
- Pile the pea and chicken mixture generously onto each slice of warm toast
- Finish with flair:
- Sprinkle with chili flakes, fresh herbs, and crumbled cheese if you are using them
Pin it My friend Maria who claims to hate peas tried these toasts at a brunch gathering and was visibly shocked when she went back for seconds. Sometimes the combinations that sound unusual on paper become the ones we cannot stop thinking about.
Making It Your Own
I have found that swapping in leftover roasted turkey or even grilled tofu works beautifully if you want to change things up. The beauty of this recipe is how adaptable it is to whatever you have in your kitchen.
Timing Matters
The contrast between warm toast and room temperature topping is what makes this recipe work. I learned the hard way that if the pea mixture gets too cold, it loses some of its appeal.
Perfect Pairings
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness perfectly. A simple arugula salad on the side makes this feel like a complete meal.
- Keep extra lemon wedges on hand for squeezing at the table
- These work as both lunch or a light dinner
- Make extra pea mixture for leftovers the next day
Pin it Sometimes the simplest meals end up being the ones that bring us the most joy in the kitchen. This toast has become my go to for busy weeknights when I want something that feels special without requiring hours of effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas work wonderfully. If using raw fresh peas, blanch them briefly in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then cool before mashing. This ensures they're tender and brings out their sweetness.
- → What's the best bread choice for this?
Rustic, dense breads work best - sourdough, country loaf, or whole grain varieties provide sturdy structure. They won't get soggy and hold the toppings well. Avoid soft sandwich bread as it may collapse under the weight.
- → How do I get the perfect chunky pea texture?
Use a fork or potato masher and mash until roughly half the peas are broken down while some remain whole. This creates appealing texture contrast. Avoid over-processing or using a food processor, which creates too-smooth paste.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Prepare the pea mixture up to 4 hours in advance and refrigerate. Toast the bread and assemble just before serving to maintain crispness. Avoid topping until ready to eat, as moisture softens the toast quickly.
- → What proteins can substitute for chicken?
Rotisserie turkey, grilled tofu, smoked salmon, or white beans all pair beautifully with smashed peas. Each adds different flavor dimensions while maintaining the high-protein profile and ease of preparation.
- → How spicy is this with chili flakes?
Half a teaspoon provides mild warmth without overpowering heat. Adjust to personal preference - start with less and add more as desired. The flakes create nice texture contrast and complement the creamy pea mixture.