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A close-up shot of creamy garlic spinach cottage cheese pasta in a white ceramic bowl. The pasta is well-coated in a smooth, white sauce with bright green spinach leaves and sprinkled with grated Parmesan. The background is rustic with a wooden table, creating a cozy, homestyle feel.

Garlic Spinach Cottage Cheese Pasta: Your New Creamy Favorite

This creamy pasta dish combines the tangy goodness of cottage cheese with the bold flavors of garlic and fresh spinach. It’s a comforting, protein-packed meal that’s quick and easy to make, perfect for any day of the week.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot
  • 1 Skillet
  • 1 Strainer
  • 1 Wooden spoon
  • 1 Measuring cups

Ingredients
  

  • 200 g pasta of choice penne or fusilli
  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • 3 cups fresh spinach
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese optional
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
  • A squeeze of lemon juice

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Pasta : Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.
  • Sauté Garlic and Spinach : Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Toss in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Make the Creamy Sauce : Lower the heat and add cottage cheese to the garlic-spinach mixture. Stir well to create a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
  • Combine with Pasta : Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, mixing it into the creamy sauce until evenly coated. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
  • Serve : Divide the pasta into bowls, top with grated Parmesan if desired, and enjoy your creamy creation!

Notes

  • If you prefer extra creaminess, you can blend the cottage cheese for a smoother texture.
  • You can add a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp to make this dish heartier.
  • Substitute spinach with kale or arugula for a different flavor profile.
Keyword creamy cottage cheese pasta, healthy pasta, protein-packed pasta, quick dinner recipe, spinach garlic pasta