Save to Pinterest A creamy, tangy pasta sauce featuring sun-dried tomatoes and cottage cheese for a protein-rich flavorful twist perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
This sauce quickly became a family favorite for weeknight dinners especially when time is short.
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Ingredients
- Main Sauce: 1 cup (150 g) sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil drained or rehydrated if dry)
- Main Sauce: 1 cup (240 g) cottage cheese
- Main Sauce: 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil
- Main Sauce: 2 garlic cloves peeled
- Main Sauce: 1/4 cup (15 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Main Sauce: 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Main Sauce: 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Main Sauce: 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- To Serve: 400 g (14 oz) dried pasta (penne fusilli or spaghetti)
- To Serve: 2 tablespoons fresh basil chopped
- To Serve: Additional grated Parmesan for serving
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Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water then drain pasta
- Step 2:
- Meanwhile in a blender or food processor combine sun-dried tomatoes cottage cheese olive oil garlic Parmesan salt pepper and red pepper flakes (if using) Blend until smooth and creamy
- Step 3:
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed
- Step 4:
- Return drained pasta to the pot Pour sauce over pasta tossing to coat Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency
- Step 5:
- Serve immediately garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan
Save to Pinterest Sharing this dish at family dinners always brings smiles and requests for seconds.
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Required Tools
Large pot blender or food processor measuring cups and spoons knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cottage cheese Parmesan) and wheat/gluten (pasta) For gluten-free use gluten-free pasta
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 420 calories 17 g total fat 49 g carbohydrates 17 g protein
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This sauce is a delightful way to elevate your pasta nights while keeping the preparation simple and quick.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What makes this sauce creamy and flavorful?
The combination of cottage cheese and extra-virgin olive oil provides a smooth, creamy base, while sun-dried tomatoes add a rich, tangy depth. Parmesan and garlic enhance the savory notes.
- → How do I adjust the sauce consistency?
Add reserved pasta cooking water gradually to the blended sauce until it reaches a silky and smooth texture that coats the pasta well.
- → Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made in advance and stored refrigerated for up to three days, making it convenient for quick meals.
- → What pasta types pair best with this sauce?
Shapes like penne, fusilli, and spaghetti work well as they hold the creamy sauce, allowing the flavors to cling for every bite.
- → Are there options for dietary preferences?
For vegan or dairy-free needs, substitute cottage cheese with plant-based alternatives and replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
- → How can I add extra nutrition to the sauce?
Blend in a handful of baby spinach for a fresh boost of greens without altering the creamy texture significantly.
