Save to Pins 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 staple in my kitchen for busy evenings when I want something comforting yet nutritious.
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Ingredients
- 1 cup (150 g) sun-dried tomatoes: packed in oil drained or rehydrated if dry
- 1 cup (240 g) cottage cheese:
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil:
- 2 garlic cloves: peeled
- 1/4 cup (15 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt:
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper:
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional):
- 400 g (14 oz) dried pasta: penne fusilli or spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil: chopped
- 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 Pins This recipe is beloved by my entire family making weeknight dinners both easy and delicious.
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Notes
For added greens add a handful of baby spinach to the blender. Excellent paired with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio.
Required Tools
Large pot Blender or food processor Measuring cups and spoons Knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cottage cheese Parmesan). Contains wheat/gluten (pasta). For gluten-free use gluten-free pasta. Always check labels for potential allergens in store-bought products.
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This sauce brings creamy tang and protein power to your pasta in just 20 minutes.
Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute Parmesan cheese in this sauce?
Yes, you can omit Parmesan or replace it with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
- → What pasta works best with this sauce?
This sauce pairs well with penne, fusilli, spaghetti, or any pasta that holds sauce well.
- → How can I make this sauce vegan-friendly?
Use plant-based cottage cheese and omit Parmesan or use a vegan-friendly substitute like nutritional yeast.
- → Is it possible to prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- → How do I adjust the sauce consistency?
Add reserved pasta cooking water gradually to the sauce until you reach the desired creaminess and texture.
