This Smoked Salmon Cottage Cheese Toast with Avocado is one of those meals I make when I want something fast but still feel a little fancy. It’s creamy, fresh, and packed with flavor.
The salty smoked salmon, smooth cottage cheese, and buttery avocado just work so well together. And the best part? It takes about 10 minutes from start to finish.
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3–5 minutes
Why I Love This Recipe
I started making this on busy mornings when I didn’t want eggs again. I had smoked salmon in the fridge and some cottage cheese I needed to use. I spread it on toast, added avocado, and wow. It tasted like something from a café.
Now it’s one of my go-to quick lunches too.
Here’s why I keep coming back to it:
- It feels fancy but takes almost no time.
- It’s packed with protein and healthy fats.
- The textures are amazing—creamy, crunchy, soft.
- You don’t need to cook much.
- It keeps you full for hours.
What You’ll Need
- 2 slices sourdough bread
- 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese
- 4 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 2 tablespoons thinly sliced red onion
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of salt (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
Tools You’ll Need
- Toaster
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Spoon
- Small bowl
- Plate for serving
How to Make Smoked Salmon Cottage Cheese Toast with Avocado
Step 1: Toast the Bread
Place 2 slices sourdough bread into the toaster and toast until golden brown and crisp, about 3–5 minutes.
Step 2: Prep the Toppings
Slice 1 ripe avocado into thin slices. Thinly slice 2 tablespoons red onion. Chop 1 tablespoon fresh dill. In a small bowl, stir 1 cup cottage cheese with 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
Step 3: Spread the Cottage Cheese
Spread 1/2 cup of the lemon-pepper cottage cheese mixture evenly onto each slice of toasted sourdough bread.
Step 4: Add the Smoked Salmon
Divide 4 ounces thinly sliced smoked salmon evenly over the cottage cheese, gently folding the slices into soft ribbons.
Step 5: Top with Avocado and Garnish
Add sliced avocado evenly over both toasts. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons thinly sliced red onion and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill on top. Drizzle 1 teaspoon olive oil over both slices and add a pinch of salt if needed.
Macros Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~420
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 6g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The cottage cheese gives you protein and creaminess without needing mayo or cream cheese. The fat from the avocado helps your body absorb nutrients from the salmon. The acid from the lemon juice brightens everything and balances the richness. And the crispy toast adds crunch, which makes each bite more satisfying.
It’s all about balance—creamy, salty, fresh, and crunchy.
Common Mistakes
- Using unripe avocado. It should be soft but not mushy.
- Not toasting the bread enough. You need a crisp base to hold the toppings.
- Overloading with salmon so it slides off. Layer it gently.
- Skipping lemon juice. It really wakes up the flavor.
What to Serve With
- Fresh fruit salad
- A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Tomato soup
- Scrambled eggs for a bigger brunch
- Iced coffee or hot tea
Substitutions and Variations
- Use whole wheat or multigrain bread instead of sourdough.
- Swap cottage cheese for ricotta.
- Add capers for extra saltiness.
- Use arugula for a peppery bite.
- Try everything bagel seasoning on top.
Make Ahead Tips
You can slice the red onion and chop the dill ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Mix the cottage cheese with lemon juice and pepper up to one day ahead. Toast and assemble right before serving so the bread stays crisp.
Leftovers and Storage
This is best eaten fresh. If needed, store toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Don’t store assembled toast—it will get soggy.
FAQ
Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, but full-fat gives better texture and flavor.
Is this good for meal prep?
It’s better fresh, but you can prep toppings ahead.
Can I skip the onion?
Of course. It just adds a little crunch and sharpness.
Is smoked salmon cooked?
Yes, it’s cured and safe to eat as is.
Final Thoughts
This toast proves that simple food can still feel special. It’s quick, filling, and packed with flavor. Try it once, and I think it’ll become one of your favorites too. When you make it, come back and tell me how it turned out or what twist you added. I’d love to hear!