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.
I first tried this recipe on a busy weeknight and loved how it came together so quickly without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
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 denté 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 recipe quickly became a family favorite especially when served with fresh basil on top making dinner time special.
Variations
Try adding cooked shredded chicken or chickpeas for added protein or swap baby spinach for kale for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Pairs beautifully with crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio as a refreshing accompaniment.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.
Save This creamy spinach pasta is a delightful weeknight meal that balances taste and nutrition effortlessly.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How can I make the sauce creamier?
Adding a tablespoon of cream cheese or using full-fat cottage cheese enhances the sauce's creaminess. Blending thoroughly also ensures a smooth texture.
- → Can I use other greens instead of spinach?
Yes, kale or Swiss chard can be sautéed and blended for a similar effect, offering different flavor notes while keeping the sauce vibrant and nutritious.
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Penne or fusilli hold the sauce well due to their shape, but any short pasta or even spaghetti can be used depending on preference.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from being too thick or thin?
Adjust the consistency by stirring in reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time until the desired silky texture is achieved.
- → Is this suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this dish is vegetarian as it includes dairy but no meat or seafood. Using cheese and fresh spinach adds both flavor and nutrition.