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 recipe quickly became a family favorite due to its rich flavors and easy preparation.
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 dent e. 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 saut e 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 My family always gathers around the table eager to eat this comforting pasta dish.
Required Tools
Large pot Large skillet Wooden spoon or spatula Colander Knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (cottage cheese, Parmesan) and 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
Save This creamy pasta is perfect for weeknight dinners and leftovers taste even better the next day.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, short pastas like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work best but feel free to substitute with your favorite shapes.
- → How can I make the sauce silkier?
Blend the cottage cheese before adding it to the sauce to achieve a smoother, creamier texture.
- → Is it possible to add more protein to this dish?
Absolutely, grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms can be added for extra protein and flavor.
- → Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
Fresh tomatoes will change the flavor profile; sun-dried tomatoes provide a concentrated, tangy taste essential to the dish.
- → What can be used if I'm allergic to dairy?
Dairy alternatives like vegan cheese or tofu-based spreads can be experimented with, though texture and flavor will vary.