Save A luscious, protein-rich pasta dish featuring creamy cottage cheese, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and tender spinach, tossed with al dente pasta for a satisfying and nourishing meal.
This dish quickly became a family favorite because of its creamy texture and vibrant flavors that everyone enjoys.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) short pasta (penne fusilli or rigatoni)
- Sauce: 2 tbsp olive oil 1 small yellow onion finely chopped 3 garlic cloves minced 120 g (3/4 cup) sun-dried tomatoes in oil drained and sliced 150 g (5 oz) baby spinach leaves 250 g (1 cup) cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat) 60 ml (1/4 cup) whole milk or reserved pasta water 40 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs (optional) Salt and pepper to taste Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Garnish: Extra grated Parmesan cheese Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water then drain.
- Step 2:
- While the pasta cooks heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2 3 minutes until translucent.
- Step 3:
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Add the spinach and cook stirring until wilted (about 1 2 minutes).
- Step 6:
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in cottage cheese milk (or reserved pasta water) and Parmesan cheese. Mix until creamy and heated through. Season with Italian herbs salt pepper and red pepper flakes as desired.
- Step 7:
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce tossing gently to coat. If the sauce is too thick add a little more reserved pasta water.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
Save This recipe always brings our family together around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter over bowls of creamy pasta.
Notes
For a silkier sauce blend the cottage cheese before adding. Substitute ricotta or cream cheese for a different flavor. Add grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works well as a substitute.
Required Tools
Large pot Large skillet Wooden spoon or spatula Colander Knife and cutting board
Nutritional Information
Calories 425 Total Fat 15 g Carbohydrates 52 g Protein 22 g
Save Enjoy this creamy pasta dish any night of the week for a comforting and nutritious meal.
Kitchen Guide
- → Can I use other types of pasta for this dish?
Yes, short pastas like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work best to hold the sauce well, but you can substitute with your favorite shapes.
- → How can I make the sauce silkier?
Blending the cottage cheese before mixing it into the sauce creates a smoother and creamier texture.
- → Is it possible to add protein to this dish?
Grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms can be incorporated to boost protein content and add variety.
- → What can I substitute for whole milk in the sauce?
You can use reserved pasta water instead of milk to adjust the sauce’s consistency without altering flavor.
- → Are there any tips for seasoning the sauce?
Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes can be adjusted to taste for balanced seasoning and mild heat.