why make this recipe
This Creamy Protein-Packed Pasta Bowl is perfect for busy people who want a quick, healthy meal. It combines whole grain pasta with healthy ingredients like cottage cheese, spinach, and chicken. It’s delicious, filling, and packed with protein to keep you energized throughout the day. Plus, this recipe is easy to customize according to your dietary needs.
how to make Creamy Protein-Packed Pasta Bowl
Ingredients:
- 2 cups Whole Wheat Pasta (Any pasta can be used, including gluten-free options.)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (No substitutions needed; it enhances flavor.)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced) (Use fresh for best results; can substitute with garlic powder.)
- 1 cup Low-Fat Cottage Cheese (Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese can be used for a similar texture.)
- 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free alternative.)
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (It’s essential for authenticity.)
- to taste Salt (Adjust to personal preference.)
- to taste Pepper (Adjust to personal preference.)
- 2 cups Fresh Spinach (Can substitute with kale or other leafy greens.)
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved) (Any small tomato can work, or use diced regular tomatoes.)
- 1 cup Cooked Chicken Breast (shredded) (Can be replaced with cooked chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian option.)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Basil (optional garnish) (Can use other fresh herbs like parsley or oregano.)
Directions:
- Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the low-fat cottage cheese, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce.
- Fold in the fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes, and allow them to wilt slightly.
- Finally, add the shredded chicken and stir until everything is heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
how to serve Creamy Protein-Packed Pasta Bowl
This pasta bowl is best served warm. You can dish it out into individual bowls or keep it in a large serving bowl for your family. It pairs well with a simple side salad or some crusty bread.
how to store Creamy Protein-Packed Pasta Bowl
To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely. Transfer it into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
tips to make Creamy Protein-Packed Pasta Bowl
- Make sure to use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor.
- If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of pasta cooking water while mixing.
- You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
variation
You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by replacing the chicken with cooked chickpeas or tofu. Additionally, you can switch out the spinach for kale or use different types of pasta for variety.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! You can substitute cottage cheese with Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese.
2. Is this pasta bowl suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well in the refrigerator and can be reheated for quick meals.
3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese and Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternatives for cottage cheese.
Creamy Protein-Packed Pasta Bowl
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: High Protein, Gluten-Free option available
Description
A quick and healthy pasta meal packed with protein, using whole grain pasta, cottage cheese, spinach, and chicken.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Whole Wheat Pasta
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 cup Low-Fat Cottage Cheese
- 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- 2 cups Fresh Spinach
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup Cooked Chicken Breast (shredded)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Basil (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the low-fat cottage cheese, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce.
- Fold in the fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes, and allow them to wilt slightly.
- Finally, add the shredded chicken and stir until everything is heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
Make sure to use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of pasta cooking water while mixing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian