Pin this 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 comforting taste 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 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.
Pin this This dish always brings the family together around the table for a cozy dinner.
Notes
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.
Pin this This creamy sun-dried tomato spinach cottage cheese pasta is perfect for quick weeknight meals or satisfying weekend dinners.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → Can I use different pasta types for this dish?
Yes, short shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work best, but whole wheat or gluten-free varieties also blend well with the creamy sauce.
- → How can I make the sauce silkier?
Blending the cottage cheese before stirring it in creates a smoother, creamier texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
- → Is it possible to add protein alternatives?
Grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms can be incorporated to boost protein and add variety to the dish.
- → What is the role of pasta water in this preparation?
Reserved pasta water helps loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick, ensuring perfect consistency and clinging to each pasta piece.
- → Can fresh herbs be used as garnish?
Yes, fresh basil leaves add a lovely aroma and fresh flavor that complements the rich and tangy components of the dish.