Begin by preheating your toaster or toaster oven to medium-high heat. Slice the whole grain or sourdough bread to your preferred thickness and toast until golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes.

While the bread is toasting, scoop the cottage cheese into a bowl. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper, then mix well using a fork until combined.

Wash and dry your ripe tomato. Using a sharp knife, slice the tomato into even rounds, approximately 1/4 inch thick.

Once your bread is perfectly toasted, spread a generous layer of the seasoned cottage cheese on each slice while it's still warm.

Arrange the sliced tomatoes on top of the cottage cheese, slightly overlapping them for an appealing presentation.

Drizzle extra virgin olive oil gently over the tomatoes.

Sprinkle additional salt and pepper over the top to taste, and garnish with fresh basil leaves and/or balsamic glaze.