Quick whipped cottage cheese toasts with grated tomato, green olives, and crispy basil

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. If you prefer using an oven or toaster oven with broil/grill, preheat it to 425 °F / 220 °C.

2. 2

   Add the cottage cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, half of the olive oil (3/4 tbsp / 11 ml), garlic, a pinch of salt, and black pepper to a blending cup or small food processor. Blend for 30 to 45 seconds until smooth and creamy.

3. 3

   Grate the tomato into a bowl, discarding the skin if it remains in your hand. Mix the grated tomato with the chopped green olives, a pinch of salt, black pepper, and the red pepper flakes if using.

4. 4

   Heat the remaining oil (3/4 tbsp / 11 ml) in the skillet and toast the bread slices for 1 to 2 minutes per side until golden and crisp. If using the oven or broiler, toast the bread for 2 to 4 minutes at 425 °F / 220 °C, watching closely so it does not burn.

5. 5

   In the same skillet, add the whole basil leaves and cook them for 10 to 15 seconds until glossy and lightly crisp. Remove them immediately to a plate.

6. 6

   Spread each toast with the whipped cottage cheese. Spoon the tomato-olive mixture on top. Finish with the crispy basil and the remaining chopped basil.

7. 7

   Serve immediately, with extra black pepper on top if desired.