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 in my home because it's both easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
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 denté. 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 23 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 12 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 Sharing this meal has brought many cozy family dinners filled with warmth and laughter.
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 dish is perfect for a quick dinner and can be easily customized to suit your taste.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni hold the sauce well and complement the creamy texture.
- → Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
Fresh tomatoes can be used but will provide a milder, less concentrated flavor compared to sun-dried ones.
- → How can I make the sauce silkier?
Blending the cottage cheese before adding it creates a smoother, silkier sauce texture.
- → Is it possible to add protein to this dish?
Yes, grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms can be incorporated for extra protein and flavor variety.
- → What can be used as a garnish?
Extra grated Parmesan and fresh basil leaves enhance both taste and presentation.
- → Can I substitute the pasta for dietary needs?
Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta varieties work well as alternatives without compromising taste.