# Components:
→ Dairy
01 - 1 cup whole milk cottage cheese
02 - 1/4 cup milk or reserved pasta cooking water
03 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Vegetables & Aromatics
04 - Zest of 1 lemon
05 - Juice of 1 lemon
06 - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
07 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)
→ Spices & Seasonings
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
09 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
10 - Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
→ For Serving
11 - 14 ounces cooked pasta of choice
12 - Extra lemon zest, Parmesan cheese, and chopped herbs for garnish
# Directions:
01 - In a blender or food processor, blend cottage cheese, milk or reserved pasta water, Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
02 - Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning with additional salt, black pepper, or lemon juice as preferred.
03 - Transfer the sauce to a saucepan and gently warm over medium-low heat for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently; avoid boiling.
04 - Toss the warm sauce with freshly cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
05 - Serve immediately, garnished with extra lemon zest, grated Parmesan, red pepper flakes, and chopped fresh herbs if desired.
