Save A comforting pasta dish featuring a creamy, protein-rich cottage cheese sauce blended with fresh spinach and garlic, perfect for a wholesome weeknight meal.
This recipe has become a family favorite for busy weeknights because it combines nutrition with simplicity and taste.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) penne or fusilli pasta
- Sauce: 250 g (1 cup) cottage cheese full-fat or low-fat, 100 g (3.5 oz) fresh baby spinach, 2 cloves garlic minced, 2 tbsp olive oil, 60 ml (1/4 cup) milk, 30 g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste), 1/4 tsp black pepper, Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- Garnish: Extra grated Parmesan cheese, Freshly ground black pepper, Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 120 ml (1/2 cup) of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- Step 2:
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the spinach and cook, stirring, until just wilted (about 2 minutes). Remove from heat.
- Step 3:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, wilted spinach and garlic, milk, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
- Step 4:
- Return the drained pasta to the pot or skillet. Pour the creamy spinach sauce over the pasta, tossing to coat evenly. Add reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.
- Step 5:
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan, black pepper, and fresh basil if desired.
Save This dish brings the family together at the dinner table, sparking conversations and smiles over every creamy bite.
Tips for Perfect Texture
Using freshly grated Parmesan and reserving pasta water ensures a silky sauce that clings to every pasta piece.
Variations
Add cooked shredded chicken or chickpeas for extra protein or substitute whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs.
Pairings
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio, balancing the creamy sauce.
Save Enjoy this easy and delicious recipe as a wholesome meal that satisfies your comfort food cravings.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Penne or fusilli are ideal as their shapes hold the creamy sauce well, but other short pasta varieties can also be used.
- → Can I use low-fat cottage cheese without affecting texture?
Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well though the sauce may be slightly less rich; blending thoroughly ensures smoothness.
- → How can I make the sauce smoother if too thick?
Adding reserved pasta cooking water gradually helps loosen the sauce to your preferred consistency while maintaining flavor.
- → Is it possible to include extra protein in this dish?
Yes, shredded cooked chicken or chickpeas can be tossed in for added protein and texture variety.
- → What herbs or garnishes complement the flavors best?
Fresh basil leaves and extra grated Parmesan add aromatic and savory notes that enhance the creamy spinach sauce.
- → Can this dish be adapted for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely, using certified gluten-free pasta maintains the dish’s flavors while accommodating gluten sensitivities.