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Homemade Cottage Cheese Creamy Pesto Pasta photo

Cottage Cheese Creamy Pesto Pasta

This Cottage Cheese Creamy Pesto Pasta is a quick, protein-packed delight that's creamy and bursting with flavor!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta:
  • 1 lb orecchiette pasta (or pasta of your choice)
  • 1 cup basil pesto
  • 1 cup cottage cheese (2% or 4% recommended)
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
  • Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
  • For garnish: crushed red pepper flakes, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Measuring cups
  • Serving dish

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orecchiette pasta (or your choice of pasta) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Once cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the rest in a colander.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the basil pesto and cottage cheese. Stir well until you have a smooth, creamy mixture. The cottage cheese will provide a luscious texture and a subtle tang that pairs perfectly with the pesto.
  3. Add the drained pasta back into the pot. Pour the creamy pesto mixture over the hot pasta. Mix gently until the pasta is evenly coated. If the mixture is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired creaminess.
  4. Taste your pasta and season with kosher salt and black pepper as desired. This step is crucial, as it enhances the flavors of the dish.
  5. Spoon the Cottage Cheese Creamy Pesto Pasta into bowls. For an extra touch, sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes for heat, fresh basil for brightness, and a generous grating of Parmesan cheese for added flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • For added flavor, consider roasting garlic and blending it into the pesto before mixing it with the cottage cheese.
  • If you prefer a thinner sauce, always add more reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired consistency.
  • Feel free to add veggies such as cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini to the pasta for extra nutrition.
  • This pasta dish can easily be made ahead of time and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep.