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 is one of my favorite weeknight meals because it combines comfort with nutrition and comes together in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) penne or fusilli pasta
- Sauce: 250 g (1 cup) cottage cheese full-fat or low-fat
- Sauce: 100 g (3.5 oz) fresh baby spinach
- Sauce: 2 cloves garlic minced
- Sauce: 2 tbsp olive oil
- Sauce: 60 ml (1/4 cup) milk
- Sauce: 30 g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- Sauce: 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- Sauce: 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Sauce: Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- Garnish: Extra grated Parmesan cheese
- Garnish: Freshly ground black pepper
- Garnish: 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 My family always asks for seconds when I make this creamy spinach pasta it's become a beloved staple in our dinner rotation.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Pinot Grigio for a delightful meal experience.
Variations
Add cooked shredded chicken or chickpeas to boost the protein content and make it even heartier.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid curdling the sauce.
Save This creamy spinach pasta is quick nutritious and delicious a perfect weeknight dinner.
Recipe FAQ
- → How can I make the sauce creamier?
Adding a tablespoon of cream cheese or a splash of extra milk while blending can enhance the sauce's creaminess.
- → Can I substitute the pasta type?
Yes, penne or fusilli work best, but whole wheat or gluten-free pasta varieties can be used to suit dietary needs.
- → What’s the best way to wilt spinach for the sauce?
Sauté minced garlic in olive oil, then add fresh spinach and cook just until wilted, preserving its vibrant green color.
- → Is it possible to add protein to this dish?
Cooked shredded chicken or chickpeas can be tossed in to boost protein content without affecting the creamy sauce.
- → How do I adjust the sauce consistency?
Use reserved pasta cooking water gradually to thin the sauce to your desired texture while tossing with pasta.
- → What garnishes complement this pasta well?
Extra grated Parmesan, freshly ground black pepper, and fresh basil leaves add flavor and visual appeal.