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Cottage Cheese Pasta

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  • Author: Molly Yeh
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A creamy, protein-packed pasta dish made with cottage cheese for a healthier twist on traditional creamy pastas.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.
  2. In a blender or food processor, blend cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth.
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Add the blended cottage cheese mixture to the skillet and stir to warm through.
  5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat. Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
  6. Season with red pepper flakes, additional salt, and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Notes

  • Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier version.
  • Add sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
  • Choose small curd cottage cheese for a smoother sauce.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg