This is one of those super simple recipes that just works. It’s fresh, creamy, juicy, and takes less than 10 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for when you want something light but still satisfying. Plus, the combo of creamy cottage cheese and ripe tomatoes is just chef’s kiss.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe brings back memories of my favorite summer lunches. I used to pick tomatoes straight from the garden, slice them thick, and layer them over a creamy base. It’s fast, simple, and always hits the spot. It’s the kind of food that feels fancy without trying too hard.
- No cooking required
- Comes together in 10 minutes
- Great way to use ripe tomatoes
- Packed with protein from the cottage cheese
- You can dress it up or keep it super basic
- Servings: 2 toasts
- Total Time: 10 minutes
What You’ll Need
- 2 slices sourdough bread
- ½ cup cottage cheese (full fat, small curd is best)
- 1 large ripe tomato (heirloom or beefsteak), sliced thick
- ½ tablespoon olive oil
- Pinch of flaky sea salt
- Pinch of freshly cracked black pepper
- 2–3 fresh basil leaves (optional)
Tools You’ll Need
- Toaster or toaster oven
- Small spoon or butter knife
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Serving plate
Pro Tips
- Use thick-cut sourdough for best crunch and structure.
- Let the toast cool 1 minute before adding cottage cheese—this keeps it from getting soggy.
- Use room-temperature cottage cheese for better flavor.
- If your tomato is super juicy, blot slices with a paper towel before adding.
- Crack the pepper fresh over the top—it makes a big difference.
Substitutions & Variations
- Use ricotta or cream cheese instead of cottage cheese
- Swap sourdough with multigrain or rye
- Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra zing
- Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning
- Add sliced avocado or a fried egg for extra richness
Make Ahead Tips
You can toast the bread and slice the tomatoes ahead of time. Store them separately, and assemble right before eating so it stays crisp.
Let’s Make It!
Step 1: Toast the Bread
Toast 2 slices of sourdough until golden and crispy. Let cool for 1 minute so it doesn’t melt the cheese.
Step 2: Spread the Cottage Cheese
Spoon ¼ cup of cottage cheese onto each slice of toast. Use the back of the spoon to spread it evenly.
Step 3: Add the Tomato
Place 2–3 thick slices of ripe tomato on top of the cottage cheese. Cover most of the surface.
Step 4: Season and Finish
Drizzle with ½ tbsp olive oil across both toasts. Add a pinch of flaky sea salt, cracked black pepper, and 2–3 torn basil leaves.
Macros (per toast, approx.)
- Calories: 230
- Protein: 14g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The cottage cheese brings creamy richness and protein, which balances the acidity and juiciness of the tomato. Toasted bread adds crunch and structure, so it holds up without getting soggy. Olive oil brings out the tomato’s natural flavor, and salt enhances everything. Simple layers = big flavor.
Common Mistakes
- Overloading the toast – too much tomato or cheese = soggy
- Using watery tomatoes – slice and drain first if needed
- Skipping the salt and pepper – it really needs both
- Adding toppings while toast is hot – let it cool a little!
What to Serve With
- A handful of arugula with lemon juice
- A bowl of soup (like tomato basil or lentil)
- A light smoothie or iced tea
- Hard-boiled eggs or fruit on the side
FAQ
Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, but full-fat has a creamier texture and richer flavor.
What kind of tomatoes work best?
Heirloom, beefsteak, or any juicy, ripe summer tomato.
Can I make it ahead of time?
You can toast and prep ingredients ahead, but assemble just before eating.
Can I use gluten-free bread?
Definitely! Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the toppings.
Leftovers and Storage
This is best made fresh, but if you must, store the components separately:
- Keep toast in a zip bag at room temp for 1 day
- Store sliced tomatoes and cottage cheese in separate containers in the fridge
- Assemble right before eating
Final Thoughts
Cottage Cheese and Tomato Toast proves that simple can still be so good. It’s quick, fresh, and endlessly customizable. Try it once, and you’ll keep coming back to it all season long. Give it a try, and let me know how it turned out in the comments!