Name: Creamy Tomato and Cottage Cheese Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooked pasta of your choice

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Introduction

This creamy tomato and cottage cheese sauce offers a delicious twist on classic tomato pasta. By incorporating cottage cheese, the sauce gains extra protein and a smooth, light creaminess that pairs beautifully with your favorite pasta.

A white bowl filled with a serving of wide, flat pasta noodles coated in a rich, creamy orange-red tomato sauce; the pasta is twisted and layered naturally inside the bowl. On top, there are small pieces of fresh green parsley scattered evenly, with a light sprinkle of white grated cheese and some black pepper. The bowl is placed on a soft white cloth on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 2: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, and dried basil. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook gently for 10 minutes to develop flavor.
Step 3: Meanwhile, blend the cottage cheese in a blender or food processor until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Stir the blended cottage cheese into the simmering tomato sauce, mixing well to combine and heat through.
Step 5: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over your favorite cooked pasta.

Tips & Variations

For a smoother sauce, strain the crushed tomatoes before cooking to reduce chunks.
Use fresh basil and oregano if available for a brighter flavor.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
Swap cottage cheese with ricotta or Greek yogurt for a different creamy texture.

Storage

Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess. This sauce freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with fettuccine pasta coated in a creamy tomato sauce with a light orange color, layered with parsley leaves scattered on top, and thin shavings of white cheese sprinkled evenly across the dish. The pasta strands have a smooth texture and are twisted together, with some pieces showing a light sheen of sauce. Black pepper specks are visible throughout the dish, adding contrast to the warm tones. The bowl sits on a soft white fabric on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used but make sure to cook them down well to achieve a saucy consistency. You may need to simmer longer to soften and break down the tomatoes.

Is this sauce suitable for lactose-intolerant people?

Cottage cheese contains lactose, so this sauce may not be suitable for those who are lactose intolerant. You can try lactose-free cottage cheese or substitute with a dairy-free creamy alternative.