*Why we love it: *

Americans have been whipping cream cheese into frostings and lathering it onto bagels since a dairyman by the name of William Lawrence developed it back in 1872. It’s smooth and irresistibly creamy, comes equipped with a mild tangy flavor, and is often jazzed up with herbs, dried fruit, or spices. But for this toast, simplicity is the name of the game.

How to make it: No recipe necessary. Just spread on a generous layer of cream cheese before adding a few sliced tomatoes, torn basil, finely chopped chives, and a dusting of salt and pepper.

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