Silky Protein-Rich Pasta Bowl Recipe

Introduction

This Silky Protein-Rich Pasta Bowl combines nutritious ingredients into a creamy, satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week. Rich in protein and packed with fresh spinach, it’s a wholesome twist on classic pasta dishes.

Ingredients

• 12oz high-protein pasta
• 16oz low-fat cottage cheese
• 1/2 cup non-fat milk
• 1/3 cup grated parmesan
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 tsp table salt
• 1 tsp coarse ground black pepper
• 7oz fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup saved pasta water

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the high-protein pasta according to the package directions until it is firm to the bite. Reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining.
2. Step 2: In a blender, combine cottage cheese, non-fat milk, grated parmesan, and chopped garlic. Blend until the mixture is silky smooth.
3. Step 3: Pour the blended sauce into a large non-stick pan and gently heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Step 4: When the sauce is warm, add the chopped spinach and stir until it just begins to soften.
5. Step 5: Stir in the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce, then add the drained pasta to the pan.
6. Step 6: Turn off the heat and stir the pasta in the sauce for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing everything to combine and thicken. The sauce will thicken further as it cools.
7. Step 7: Serve topped with extra black pepper and parmesan to taste.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh baby spinach for a tender texture, or substitute with kale or arugula for a different flavor.
• For added protein, mix in grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp before serving.
• If you prefer a smoother sauce, strain the blended mixture before heating.
• Adjust garlic quantity to taste, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

Storage

Allow the pasta bowl to cool completely before storing leftovers in a sealed container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk, water, or broth and warm gently in the microwave, stirring frequently to restore the creamy texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, but high-protein pasta adds extra nutrition and maintains a nice texture that complements the creamy sauce well.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-fat diet?

Absolutely. Using low-fat cottage cheese and non-fat milk keeps the sauce light while still providing richness and protein.

Silky Protein-Rich Pasta Bowl Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 95 reviews

This Silky Protein-Rich Pasta Bowl combines high-protein pasta with a creamy, cottage cheese-based sauce infused with garlic, parmesan, and fresh spinach. The sauce is blended to a smooth consistency and gently warmed, creating a luscious, nutritious dish perfect for a wholesome meal.

• Author: Isla
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Stovetop
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

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Pasta

• 12oz high-protein pasta

Sauce

• 16oz low-fat cottage cheese
• 1/2 cup non-fat milk
• 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 tsp table salt
• 1 tsp coarse ground black pepper
• 7oz fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup reserved pasta water

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the high-protein pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, meaning it is firm to the bite. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a blender, combine the low-fat cottage cheese, non-fat milk, grated parmesan, and finely chopped garlic cloves. Blend the mixture until it becomes silky smooth and creamy.
3. Heat the Sauce: Pour the blended sauce into a large non-stick pan and gently warm it over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to heat the sauce evenly.
4. Add Spinach: Once the sauce is warm, add the roughly chopped fresh spinach to the pan. Stir continuously until the spinach just starts to soften, allowing it to wilt slightly while preserving its vibrant color and nutrients.
5. Incorporate Pasta Water and Pasta: Pour the reserved 1/4 cup of starchy pasta water into the sauce to loosen it and make it creamier. Then add the drained pasta to the pan, mixing well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
6. Finish Cooking: Turn off the heat and stir the pasta in the sauce for 1 to 2 minutes, letting the flavors meld together and the sauce thicken slightly. The sauce will continue to thicken as the dish rests.
7. Serve: Plate the pasta and sprinkle additional black pepper and grated parmesan cheese on top before serving to enhance the flavor and presentation.

Notes

• Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to a sealed container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• When reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk, water, or broth to loosen the sauce. Heat slowly in the microwave, stirring frequently to restore the creamy texture.

Keywords: protein pasta, cottage cheese sauce, creamy pasta, spinach pasta, healthy pasta recipe, low-fat pasta dish