Save to Pinterest 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 quickly became a family favorite because it balances health and comfort perfectly.
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 to Pinterest This dish often brings the family together for a quick wholesome meal on busy nights.
Notes
For added protein toss in cooked shredded chicken or chickpeas. Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred. For a richer sauce add 1 tbsp cream cheese to the blender. Pairs well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Pinot Grigio.
Required Tools
Large pot Skillet Blender or food processor Strainer Cooking spoon
Nutritional Information
Calories 390 Total Fat 10 g Carbohydrates 53 g Protein 20 g per serving
Save to Pinterest This creamy spinach pasta is a quick nutritious dish ready in under 30 minutes perfect for any weeknight.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use other types of pasta for this dish?
Yes, penne and fusilli work well, but you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, including gluten-free varieties.
- → How do I achieve the creamy sauce consistency?
Blending cottage cheese with milk and Parmesan creates a smooth sauce. Adjust thickness by adding reserved pasta water gradually.
- → Is it possible to add more protein to this dish?
Absolutely. Incorporating cooked shredded chicken or chickpeas boosts protein while maintaining flavor balance.
- → What is the best way to wilt the spinach for this dish?
Sauté minced garlic in olive oil, then add fresh spinach and cook just until wilted, about 2 minutes, to retain vibrant color and texture.
- → Can this dish be made richer or creamier?
For a richer sauce, adding a tablespoon of cream cheese during blending enhances creaminess without altering the core flavors.