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 creamy pasta quickly became a family favorite because it feels indulgent yet is packed with nutritious ingredients.
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 smiles during family dinners especially when paired with fresh basil garnish.
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
Calories 425 Total Fat 15 g Carbohydrates 52 g Protein 22 g per serving
Save This pasta is perfect for quick weeknight meals while still impressing guests with its flavor and texture.
Recipe Guide
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni hold the creamy sauce well and are ideal for this preparation.
- → Can I substitute the cottage cheese?
Yes, ricotta or cream cheese can be used for a different texture and flavor profile.
- → How do I make the sauce silkier?
Blending the cottage cheese before mixing it into the sauce creates a smoother and silkier texture.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it contains dairy but no meat, making it suitable for a vegetarian diet.
- → What can I add for extra protein?
Grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms can be added to boost protein content and flavor.
- → Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Gluten-free pasta can be substituted without affecting the overall taste and texture significantly.