High Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta

This High Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad is a light, creamy, and protein-packed dish loaded with fresh vegetables and cottage cheese. It is a filling choice for a healthy lunch, a great option for meal prep, or a refreshing side dish at any summer gathering.

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By combining short pasta with a creamy cottage cheese base and a zesty Italian dressing, you get a salad that is both nutritious and satisfying. It offers a wonderful crunch from the fresh vegetables while keeping you full with its high protein content.

Ingredients

• Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) short pasta (rotini, penne, shells, or farfalle)
• Salad Base: 250 g (9 oz, about 1 cup) cottage cheese (small or large curd), 1 medium cucumber (diced), 1 red bell pepper (diced), 200 g (7 oz) cherry tomatoes (halved), 2 cups baby spinach (roughly chopped), 2 tbsp red onion (finely diced, optional)
• Dressing: 60 ml (4 tbsp) Italian dressing, 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional Add-ins: 1/2 cup shredded carrots, 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley, 1/4 cup sliced black olives

Instructions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse thoroughly with cold water to cool, and set aside.

Step 2

While the pasta cooks, prepare the vegetables: dice cucumber and bell pepper, halve cherry tomatoes, chop spinach, and (if using) finely dice red onion and chop any optional add-ins.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Step 4

Add the cooled pasta, cottage cheese, cucumber, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, spinach, red onion, and any optional add-ins to the bowl with the dressing.

Step 5

Gently toss until everything is well combined and evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6

Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld. Stir well and, if needed, add a splash more dressing or lemon juice before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For a smoother texture, blend the cottage cheese before adding for a creamy dressing. This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days; remember to stir before serving.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Swap in arugula or chopped kale for spinach, or use any crisp veggies you have on hand like zucchini, snap peas, or carrots. You can also substitute ricotta (thinned with a little milk) or Greek yogurt for cottage cheese. For extra protein, add grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas.

Serviervorschläge

Before serving, stir the salad well to redistribute the dressing. If the pasta has absorbed too much moisture while chilling, add a small splash of dressing or fresh lemon juice to refresh the flavors.

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This cottage cheese pasta salad is a versatile and healthy meal that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the refreshing combination of fresh produce and creamy, high-protein dressing.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of pasta works best for this salad?

Short pasta shapes such as rotini, penne, shells, or farfalle are ideal as they hold the dressing and vegetables well.

→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese with other dairy?

Yes, ricotta or Greek yogurt can be used for a smoother, creamy texture that still complements the pasta and vegetables.

→ How should I prepare the salad for best flavor?

After mixing, refrigerate the salad for at least one hour so the flavors meld together beautifully before serving.

→ Are there any good vegetarian protein add-ins?

Grilled tofu, chickpeas, or shredded carrots can boost protein content and add extra texture and flavor.

→ Can this dish be made gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivities while maintaining great taste and texture.