1. Boil tomato juice with seasonings. Steep 10 to 15 minutes.
2. Add gelatin that has been softened in cold water. Stir until gelatin has melted.
3. Cool until mixture begins to thicken. Prepare vegetables and add to aspic after it has thickened.
4. Pour into ring mold and refrigerate until firm.
5. Cream cottage cheese with mayonnaise.
6. Add chopped vegetables and season to taste. Fill center of aspic with cheese mixture.
7. Marinate avocado slices and artichoke hearts in Durkee's to garnish, if desired.