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Dinner

Creamy Protein Packed Pesto Pasta

This silky pesto pasta uses blended cottage cheese to add a wonderful creaminess and a boost of protein that everyone will love.

By Daily Recipes Book· 🌍 Italian· August 10, 2026
Creamy Protein Packed Pesto Pasta
dailyrecipesbook.com
Prep
5 minutes
Cook
10 minutes
Total
15 minutes
Serves
4

Adding cottage cheese to pasta sauce might sound a bit unusual, but it is one of my favorite kitchen secrets. Once you blend the cottage cheese until it is perfectly smooth, it becomes incredibly creamy and mild. You get all the comfort of a rich pasta dish with a hidden nutritional bonus that nobody will ever guess is there.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something fresh but filling. If you have picky eaters at home, this is a great way to sneak in some extra protein. Just make sure to blend the sauce until it is completely smooth so the texture stays light and consistent.

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces of your favorite pasta
  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto
  • 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. 1

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions until it is al dente.

  2. 2

    While the pasta cooks, place the cottage cheese and basil pesto into a blender or food processor.

  3. 3

    Blend the mixture on high speed for about one minute until the texture is completely smooth and creamy.

  4. 4

    Drain the cooked pasta, but be sure to save about half a cup of the starchy pasta water.

  5. 5

    Return the pasta to the warm pot and pour the blended sauce over it.

  6. 6

    Toss everything together over low heat, adding a splash of the saved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.

  7. 7

    Stir in the parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to your liking.

  8. 8

    Serve warm with a few fresh basil leaves on top.

💡 Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If the pasta seems a little dry after reheating, just add a tiny splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to bring back that creamy texture.

#vegetarian#high protein#easy dinner#pasta#quick meals

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