1. Prepare Your Vegetables: Wash and dry all vegetables thoroughly. Slice cucumber into thin rounds (about ⅛-inch thick). Slice tomato into thin slices and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. If using red onion, slice paper-thin and soak in cold water for 5 minutes to mellow the sharpness, then drain and pat dry.
2. Season the Cottage Cheese: In a small bowl, combine cottage cheese with your chosen seasonings. Mix well with a fork, breaking up any large curds slightly if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning—cottage cheese is already somewhat salty, so add additional salt sparingly. For an extra-smooth texture, blend cottage cheese in a food processor for 30 seconds before seasoning.
3. Toast the Bread (Recommended): Lightly toast both bread slices. This step is optional but highly recommended—it adds structure, prevents sogginess, and adds pleasant texture contrast to the creamy cottage cheese. Toast to light golden brown, not too dark.
4. Spread the Cottage Cheese: Lay both toasted bread slices on a clean plate or cutting board. Spread about ¼ cup (about half the cottage cheese) on each slice, covering edge to edge. Use the back of a spoon or offset spatula for even coverage. The thick layer of cottage cheese is what makes this sandwich special!
5. Layer the Vegetables: On one slice of bread (this will be your base), arrange cucumber slices in an even layer, slightly overlapping. Add tomato slices on top. Layer any additional vegetables you’re using—greens, red onion, avocado, etc.
6. Add Optional Toppings: If using smoked salmon, drape it over the vegetables. Add sliced hard-boiled egg, sprouts, capers, or any other add-ins you’re including.
7. Season and Finish: Give the vegetables a light sprinkle of black pepper and a tiny pinch of salt if needed (remember, cottage cheese is already salty!). Drizzle with olive oil or hot sauce if desired.
8. Close the Sandwich: Place the second bread slice on top, cottage cheese side down. Press down very gently to help everything adhere.
9. Cut and Serve: Using a sharp knife, cut the sandwich in half diagonally or straight across. For easier eating, you can cut it into quarters. Serve immediately and enjoy!

For Open-Face Version:

• Use just one slice of bread
• Spread cottage cheese generously on top
• Layer all vegetables and toppings artfully
• Eat with a knife and fork