Save to Pinterest 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 is a comforting dish I enjoy making when I want something quick yet flavorful. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and spinach with cottage cheese always wins praise from my family.
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 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 to Pinterest Our family gathers around this dish often, sharing stories and enjoying the rich flavors that bring everyone together at the table.
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
Nutritional Information
Calories 425 Total Fat 15 g Carbohydrates 52 g Protein 22 g per serving
Save to Pinterest This pasta is perfect for weeknight dinners and pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad.
Questions & Answers
- → How do you achieve a creamy sauce without heavy cream?
Using cottage cheese combined with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water creates a smooth, creamy texture without heavy cream.
- → Can I use other types of pasta for this dish?
Yes, short pasta varieties like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work well to hold the sauce and complement the flavors.
- → What is the role of sun-dried tomatoes in this dish?
Sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy, concentrated flavor that balances the richness of the creamy sauce.
- → Is it possible to make this dish vegan or dairy-free?
You can substitute cottage cheese and Parmesan with plant-based alternatives, and use olive oil for richness to keep the flavor intact.
- → How can I enhance the flavor with herbs or spices?
Adding dried Italian herbs and a pinch of red pepper flakes brings aromatic depth and a mild heat to the sauce.