why make this recipe
High Protein Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delicious meal perfect for those who want a filling dish that also packs a protein punch. With creamy cottage cheese blended into a rich tomato sauce, this recipe is both satisfying and easy to make. It’s great for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for families or anyone looking for a nutritious yet tasty meal.
how to make High Protein Creamy Tomato Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, dried basil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and add the cottage cheese to the sauce, stirring until well combined and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired.
how to serve High Protein Creamy Tomato Pasta
Serve High Protein Creamy Tomato Pasta hot right from the stove. For added flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and garnish with fresh basil leaves if you like. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
how to store High Protein Creamy Tomato Pasta
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta can last for up to 3 days. When ready to eat again, you can reheat it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
tips to make High Protein Creamy Tomato Pasta
- Make sure to use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste; add more herbs or spices if you desire.
- You can add cooked vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Swap out the cottage cheese for ricotta if you prefer a different texture.
variation
You can easily customize this dish by using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs. Additionally, consider adding cooked chicken or turkey for an even higher protein content.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Yes! You can use ricotta or even cream cheese if you prefer a different flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge and can be reheated easily, making it perfect for meal prep.
Can I substitute the tomato sauce?
Yes, you can use diced tomatoes or marinara sauce if you like. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
High Protein Creamy Tomato Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli) Use your favorite type of pasta.
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese For a creamier texture, use full-fat cottage cheese.
- 2 cups tomato sauce You can substitute with diced tomatoes or marinara sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving Adds a nice flavor on top.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional) Enhances presentation and flavor.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Preparing the Sauce
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, dried basil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and add the cottage cheese to the sauce, stirring until well combined and creamy.
Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired.