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 for its creamy texture and vibrant flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal.
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 to 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 to 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 dish brings us together every time. Watching my family enjoy this creamy pasta is truly heartwarming.
Notes
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
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (cottage cheese Parmesan) Wheat (pasta). May contain Eggs (if using egg-based pasta). Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Save Enjoy this satisfying meal that balances creamy texture and vibrant flavors perfectly.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese with ricotta or cream cheese for a smoother or richer texture while maintaining creaminess.
- → How do I make the sauce silkier?
Blending the cottage cheese before adding it to the sauce creates a silkier, more uniform consistency.
- → What pasta types work best?
Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni hold the creamy sauce well and complement the texture of the ingredients.
- → Can I add protein to this dish?
Certainly, grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms can be added to increase protein content and flavor variety.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Using gluten-free pasta varieties allows this dish to be enjoyed by those avoiding gluten without compromising taste.