Description
Silky cottage cheese pasta sauce elevates ordinary noodles into a luxurious Italian-inspired comfort meal. Protein-packed and quick to prepare, this simple sauce promises rich flavor and smooth texture you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Dairy:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk (or pasta water)
Seasonings and Spices:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 12 ounces (340 grams) cooked pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your favorite)
Instructions
- Combine cottage cheese, Parmesan, and milk in a blender. Process until achieving a velvety, uniform texture without lumps.
- Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Introduce minced garlic and sauté for approximately 30 seconds, releasing its aromatic essence.
- Transfer the blended sauce into the garlic-infused pan. Incorporate salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Gently simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring consistently to ensure even heating.
- Introduce cooked pasta to the sauce, thoroughly coating each strand. If the consistency appears dense, incorporate a small amount of reserved pasta water to create a more fluid sauce.
- Elevate the dish’s presentation by sprinkling additional Parmesan, scattering fresh herbs, or drizzling a touch of olive oil. Serve immediately to preserve the sauce’s creamy consistency and optimal temperature.
Notes
- Boost protein content by selecting low-fat cottage cheese for a healthier twist without compromising creamy texture.
- Customize heat levels by adjusting red pepper flakes, making the sauce mild or spicy according to personal preference.
- Ensure ultra-smooth sauce consistency by blending ingredients for an extra 30-45 seconds, eliminating potential cottage cheese lumps.
- Transform into gluten-free option by using zucchini noodles or alternative grain-free pasta alternatives for a lighter meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 560 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg