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Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce

Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce
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This Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce blends rich creaminess with fresh herbs and subtle spices to create a nutritious, protein-packed sauce that elevates any pasta dish. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for those seeking a healthier alternative to traditional cream sauces without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat) – 1 cup, drained
  • Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
  • Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
  • Parmesan cheese – 1/4 cup, grated
  • Fresh basil – 2 tablespoons, chopped
  • Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped
  • Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon
  • Black pepper – to taste
  • Salt – to taste
  • Cooked pasta of choice – 8 ounces

Optional Variations

  • Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted cherry tomatoes – 1/2 cup (optional)
  • Red pepper flakes or cayenne – 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
  • Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas – 1/2 cup (optional)
  • Plant-based ricotta and nutritional yeast – for vegan version (substitute amounts same as cottage cheese and Parmesan)
  • Alternative fresh herbs (dill, chives, oregano) – 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the ingredients: Drain any excess liquid from the cottage cheese to avoid a watery sauce. Mince garlic and finely chop fresh herbs. Have Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and lemon juice ready and within reach.
  2. Sauté garlic in olive oil: Warm olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Lightly sauté the minced garlic until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes. This step develops the flavorful base for the sauce.
  3. Blend the sauce: In a food processor or blender, combine the drained cottage cheese, sautéed garlic with olive oil, fresh herbs, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure an even texture.
  4. Heat the sauce gently: Transfer the blended sauce back to the pan and warm over low heat. Stir frequently and season with salt and pepper to taste. Avoid boiling to maintain the creamy texture and prevent curdling.
  5. Toss with cooked pasta: Add freshly cooked and drained pasta directly into the warm sauce. Toss well to evenly coat every strand or piece of pasta for a luscious finish. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Drain the cottage cheese well to prevent a watery sauce.
  • Use fresh herbs to brighten the flavor over dried alternatives.
  • Blend the sauce until silky smooth for best texture.
  • Keep the sauce warm on low heat to avoid curdling or separation.
  • Season gradually with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste at the end.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy cottage cheese pasta sauce, healthy pasta sauce, protein packed pasta sauce, easy pasta sauce, vegetarian pasta sauce, quick pasta sauce

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