Sun-Dried Tomato Cottage Cheese

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 has become my go-to weeknight meal starter when I want something both comforting and nutritious.

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

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.

Pin

This sauce always sparks joy when shared over dinner with family and friends.

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

Nutritional Information

Calories 420 total fat 17 g carbohydrates 49 g protein 17 g per serving

Pin

This sauce is an easy flavorful addition to your pasta repertoire that works anytime.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I use dry sun-dried tomatoes instead of oil-packed?

Yes, rehydrate dry sun-dried tomatoes in warm water before blending for a smooth sauce.

→ What alternative to cottage cheese is suitable?

Plant-based cottage cheese works well for a vegan option, or you can try ricotta for a similar texture.

→ How is the sauce consistency adjusted?

Gradually add reserved pasta water to the sauce while mixing until the desired creaminess is reached.

→ Can I prepare this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, store the sauce refrigerated for up to 3 days and stir well before serving.

→ What pasta types complement this sauce best?

Penne, fusilli, or spaghetti hold the sauce well and enhance the overall texture when served.