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 became a family favorite instantly thanks to its rich flavors and creamy texture.
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 dentel 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 dish never fails to bring smiles around our dinner table especially on busy weeknights.
Notes
Substitute ricotta or cream cheese for a different flavor Add grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein.
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 This comforting pasta dish combines ease with gourmet flavor perfect for any night.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use other types of pasta in this dish?
Yes, short pasta varieties like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work well, holding the creamy sauce effectively.
- → How can I make the sauce silkier?
Blending the cottage cheese before combining it with other ingredients creates a smoother, silkier sauce texture.
- → Is it possible to substitute cottage cheese with another dairy product?
Ricotta or cream cheese are excellent alternatives that offer slightly different but equally creamy textures.
- → Can I add protein to enhance the dish?
Grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms can be added to increase the protein content and enrich flavors.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
If the sauce thickens too much, gradually add reserved pasta water to loosen it while maintaining creaminess.