Name: Harissa Eggs in Whipped Goat Cheese with Avocado Salad and Chili Butter Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 avocados, cubed; 1 cup tender herbs, such as cilantro and dill; 1 serrano or jalapeño pepper, seeded and sliced; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 3 tablespoons sesame seeds; 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Sea salt, to taste; 4 ounces goat cheese; 2-3 teaspoons honey; Pinch of salt; 4 tablespoons salted butter; 1-2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes; 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika; 6 eggs, cooked to your liking; 1/2 teaspoon red harissa; Black pepper, to taste; Naan or toast, for serving

I am so excited to share my absolute favorite recipe with you: Harissa Eggs in Whipped Goat Cheese with Avocado Salad and Chili Butter Recipe. This dish has completely transformed the way I think about breakfast and brunch. The creamy, tangy whipped goat cheese sets the perfect base, while the spicy harissa and chili butter bring a wonderful warmth and depth that you will crave. Then, topped with perfectly cooked eggs and a fresh avocado salad bursting with fresh herbs and crunch, every bite feels like a celebration of vibrant, balanced flavors. Trust me, once you try this, it will become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Harissa Eggs in Whipped Goat Cheese with Avocado Salad and Chili Butter Recipe

What makes this recipe truly stand out for me is its incredible harmony of flavors and textures. I adore how the tangy whipped goat cheese creates a silky, luxurious base, which contrasts beautifully with the bold, smoky heat of harissa. When you add the buttery chili oil and the bright, refreshing avocado salad spiked with fresh herbs and lemon juice, every bite feels lively and satisfying. It’s an exciting dish that somehow feels comforting at the same time.

I also appreciate how straightforward and quick this recipe is. Even on busy mornings or when I want to impress friends at brunch without too much fuss, this recipe delivers everything I want with minimal effort. The ingredients feel fresh and wholesome, and the preparation flows easily from one step to the next without any complicated techniques.

This dish is perfect for so many occasions. Whether you're hosting a weekend brunch, want to shake up your weekday breakfast, or are looking for a light yet indulgent dinner, this recipe fits the bill. It manages to be both sophisticated and approachable, which is why I always find myself recommending the Harissa Eggs in Whipped Goat Cheese with Avocado Salad and Chili Butter Recipe to friends and family who want something memorable and delicious.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows a close-up of several fresh ingredients arranged on a dark surface with natural light casting warm shadows. In the foreground, there is a blue ceramic cup holding four brown eggs with smooth shells. To the right, there is a clear glass jar filled with bright red sauce or paste, with a spoon inside. Behind the jar, there is a small white bowl with red chili powder and lemon wedges beside it. Further back, a white plate holds a bunch of fresh green herbs, and another small white bowl contains green chilies. To the left, a small white cup contains some toasted seeds or spices. The background is softly blurred with hints of other ingredients in white dishes. The photo is taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients list is refreshingly simple but plays a crucial role in creating the unique flavor layers of this dish. Each element brings something special—creamy avocado, fresh herbs, rich goat cheese, and spicy harissa, all tied together by that nutty chili butter that really wakes up your palate.

TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

Avocados: Cubed for freshness and creaminess that lightens up the dish.
Tender herbs (cilantro, dill): These bring a fresh, grassy note that lifts every bite.
Serrano or jalapeño pepper: Adds a mild heat with a slight crispness to the salad.
Green onions: Provide a gentle bite and lovely color contrast.
Sesame seeds: Toasted to add nuttiness and a subtle crunch.
Toasted sesame oil: Gives a warm, almost smoky richness that deepens the salad’s flavor.
Lemon juice: For that essential bright acidity to balance the cream and spice.
Sea salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
Salted butter: For making the luscious chili butter that ties the dish together.
Crushed red pepper flakes and sweet paprika: Spice and smoky warmth inside the chili butter.
Goat cheese: Whipped with honey into a creamy, slightly sweet base layer.
Honey: Balances the tanginess of the goat cheese with gentle sweetness.
Black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and complexity.
Eggs: Cooked to your preferred doneness; they’re the star protein here.
Red harissa: The spicy condiment that brings everything together with bold heat and flavor.
Naan or toast: For an irresistible, slightly chewy or crunchy accompaniment to scoop up each bite.

Directions

Step 1: Start by making the avocado salad. Combine the cubed avocados, tender herbs, sliced serrano or jalapeño pepper (de-seeded if you want it less spicy), chopped green onions, sesame seeds, toasted sesame oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of sea salt in a bowl. Gently toss to incorporate all the flavors without mashing the avocado.

Step 2: Next, prepare the whipped goat cheese. Place the goat cheese, honey, and a small pinch of salt into a food processor. Pulse until it becomes smooth, creamy, and spreadable. You want it fluffy enough to act as a luxurious bed for the eggs.

Step 3: For the chili butter, melt the salted butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Keep cooking until it starts to brown slightly and smell nutty, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat, then stir in the crushed red pepper flakes and sweet paprika, allowing the spices to infuse into the warm butter.

Step 4: Now, cook your eggs to your liking; I adore them medium-soft so the yolks can mingle with the cheese and chili butter. Once cooked, spread a generous layer of the whipped goat cheese on the bottom of each serving bowl. Swirl in the red harissa gently on top of the cheese for beautiful color and heat.

Step 5: Add the eggs carefully on top of the cheese and harissa spread. Spoon over the avocado salad, distributing it evenly. Finally, drizzle the warm chili butter over the eggs and salad for a decadent finish.

Step 6: Serve immediately while the eggs and chili butter are still warm, alongside warm naan or toast to scoop everything up. Enjoy the blend of creamy, spicy, fresh, and buttery sensations in every bite!

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings, perfect for a family brunch, a gathering with friends, or prepping for several weekday breakfasts. Prep time takes about 10 minutes, with roughly 10 to 15 minutes of cooking combined, mainly depending on your preferred egg doneness and browning the butter. Total time comes to around 30 minutes. There is no resting or cooling needed, so you can serve it fresh and hot as soon as it's ready.

How to Serve This Harissa Eggs in Whipped Goat Cheese with Avocado Salad and Chili Butter Recipe

A clear glass jar filled with bright red-orange chili oil showing a slightly oily textured surface with darker red patches. Next to the jar on the right is a spoon coated with the same thick chili oil, resting on a dark surface covered lightly with scattered light brown toasted sesame seeds. Behind the jar to the left is a white plate holding a small white bowl filled with crushed red chili flakes and some fresh green herbs beside it. On the right background, a white bowl holds several brown eggs. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with warm sunlight highlighting the rich colors and textures. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When it comes to serving this dish, I love to keep things simple but elegant. The warmth of the eggs and chili butter combined with the cool, creamy avocado salad makes it versatile enough to pair with different accompaniments. Naan bread or hearty toast works perfectly because they soak up the luscious sauces and provide a contrasting texture. For a light side, you could also serve a crisp cucumber salad or simple greens dressed with lemon and olive oil.

Presentation-wise, I like to serve it in wide, shallow bowls so that the layers of whipped goat cheese, harissa, and eggs are visible and inviting. A sprinkle of extra fresh herbs or a few toasted sesame seeds on top adds a pop of color and texture that always impresses guests. For a bit more flair, a drizzle of good olive oil or a few shreds of fresh chili can elevate the look and taste.

For drinks, this dish pairs beautifully with sparkling water infused with citrus or a bright white wine like Sauvignon Blanc if you want something alcoholic. For brunch occasions, a light cocktail like a Mimosa or a fresh herbaceous Bloody Mary complements the spicy and rich flavors wonderfully. Keep this dish served warm for the best experience, especially so the chili butter remains silky and the eggs delightfully soft.

Variations

I absolutely love how easy it is to customize this Harissa Eggs in Whipped Goat Cheese with Avocado Salad and Chili Butter Recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs. For example, if you prefer less heat, reduce the chili flakes and harissa or swap the serrano pepper for a milder bell pepper. If you want to boost the protein, adding some crisped pancetta or smoked salmon on the side is fantastic.

For dietary adjustments, this dish is naturally gluten-free if you serve it with gluten-free bread or simply eat it without the naan. To make it vegan, you could experiment with a plant-based soft cheese substitute whipped with a touch of sweetener and nutritional yeast for that umami tang. Use a vegan butter alternative and replace eggs with roasted tofu or grilled tempeh slices. The fresh avocado salad and chili butter (made with vegan butter) will still deliver vibrant flavors.

Another fun twist is to try different spice bases like swapping harissa with a smoky chipotle paste or a classic Muhammara. You can also experiment with cooking the eggs differently—poached, soft-boiled, or even scrambled for a different texture. The chili butter can be flavored with other spices like cumin or coriander to bring new layers of complexity.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store the avocado salad separately from the eggs and whipped goat cheese to maintain their texture and freshness. Use airtight containers and refrigerate promptly. The avocado salad will keep well for about 1 to 2 days before it starts browning, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh. The whipped goat cheese can stay fresh up to 3 days, and the eggs are good for about 1 to 2 days when stored carefully.

Freezing

I don’t recommend freezing the avocado salad or eggs in this recipe because the texture will suffer—avocados become mushy, and eggs can become rubbery after thawing. However, whipped goat cheese can be frozen if needed. Portion it into small airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and give it a good stir before serving.

Reheating

To reheat the eggs, use gentle methods like a low oven or microwave at reduced power in short bursts to avoid overcooking. Reheat the chili butter separately on the stovetop and drizzle fresh over the eggs to restore that buttery, spicy warmth. Avoid reheating the avocado salad—serve it chilled and fresh. The whipped goat cheese is best served at room temperature, so take it out of the fridge a little before serving to soften naturally.

FAQs

Can I make the whipped goat cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! The whipped goat cheese can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature and give it a quick stir before serving to restore its creamy texture.

What kind of eggs work best for this recipe?

I like medium-soft boiled or fried eggs with runny yolks since the yolk creates a rich sauce that complements the whipped goat cheese and chili butter. But feel free to cook eggs to your preference, whether poached, scrambled, or hard-boiled.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Definitely. You can reduce or increase the amount of red pepper flakes, harissa, or type of chili pepper used. Removing seeds from the serrano or jalapeño also cuts down on heat. It’s all about tailoring the spice to your taste!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free if you skip the naan or substitute it with gluten-free bread. The ingredients themselves are all gluten-free.

What other sides pair well with this dish?

I love serving this with simple green salads, roasted vegetables, or a light grain like quinoa or couscous to balance the richness and add variety to the meal.

Conclusion

I genuinely hope you give this Harissa Eggs in Whipped Goat Cheese with Avocado Salad and Chili Butter Recipe a try because it’s one of those dishes that brings so much joy to the table without complicated prep. The layers of creamy, spicy, fresh, and buttery flavors really come together in a way that feels both special and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for a relaxed family brunch or a lively weekend gathering, it’s bound to become a new favorite that everyone talks about. Enjoy every delicious bite!