Silky Protein-Rich Pasta Bowl Recipe
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.
- 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
Scale
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
Find it online: https://islawhite.com/silky-protein-rich-pasta-bowl-recipe/
