HAPPY NATIONAL TOAST Day! It’s time to celebrate one of the world’s most humble and overlooked foodstuffs.

This is a toast  - to toast.

1. It’s always there for you

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When all hope for good food is gone, chances are there will be a slice or two of slightly stale bread in the press. And you have a meal.

2. It brings out the beauty of other foods

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Beans. Peanut butter. Eggs. All of these foodstuffs are OK alone, but better with toast. Much better.

3. It is incredibly adaptable

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Just look at this list of 351 ways to eat it. (Some are more appetising than others.)

4. You can make it fancy for dinner or brunch

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Here are some fancy toast recipes to try:

• Guacamole bruschetta toast
• Toast with squash, prosciutto and an egg
• Smoked salmon, horseradish and cress toast

5. It can cater to your sweet tooth, too

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Nutella. French toast. Marshmallow Fluff. Go wild.

6. It’s a miracle cure

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Magic medicine.

7. And a hangover helper

Flickr / Ewan Munro Flickr / Ewan Munro / Ewan Munro

Full of good soakage for the night before, and the ideal accompaniment to a fry the morning after. Every little helps.

8. This. Just this

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