Pin this 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 recipe brings together creamy textures and bold flavors that have become a favorite in my household.
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.
Pin this This dish always brings the family together around the table for a warm comforting meal.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, wooden spoon or spatula, colander, knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains milk (cottage cheese Parmesan), wheat (pasta). May contain eggs if using egg-based pasta. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 425, Total Fat 15 g, Carbohydrates 52 g, Protein 22 g
Pin this This creamy pasta is quick to prepare and perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can cottage cheese be substituted in this pasta?
Yes, ricotta or cream cheese can be used for a different creamy texture and flavor.
- → How do I make the sauce silkier?
Blend the cottage cheese before adding it to the skillet to achieve a smoother, silkier consistency.
- → What pasta shapes work best with this dish?
Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni hold the sauce well and complement the texture nicely.
- → Can I add protein to this dish?
Grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms can be added to enhance protein content and add depth of flavor.
- → Is sun-dried tomato oil necessary for the sauce?
Using sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil adds richness and flavor, but you can drain them if a lighter sauce is preferred.
- → How can I adjust seasoning for spiciness?
A pinch of red pepper flakes can be added to introduce a subtle kick without overwhelming the dish.