If you’re looking for a vibrant and satisfying meal that balances flavor with nutrition, this High Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It’s a colorful medley of fresh veggies, creamy cottage cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta that somehow manages to be both refreshing and filling. Whether you want a quick lunch, a hearty snack, or a light dinner, this salad packs a protein punch while delivering a delightful mix of textures and flavors that feel like a comforting hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this High Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad Recipe is simple yet crucial, creating a symphony of taste, texture, and color. From the toothsome rotini that holds the salad together to the crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes that brighten every bite, each element plays its part beautifully.
- 14 oz pasta: I always use Barilla rotini for the best texture and its perfect spirals to trap dressing and cheese.
- 1 large cucumber: Diced into 1/2-inch pieces for a fresh crunch that keeps the salad lively.
- 1.5 cups tomatoes: Halved or quartered, these add juicy sweetness and a pop of red color.
- 1 yellow bell pepper: Diced into 1/2-inch pieces, providing crisp sweetness and a sunny hue.
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion: Adds a subtle bite that wakes up your taste buds without overpowering.
- 1/2 cup spinach: Chopped into 1/2-inch ribbons for a mild, earthy taste and extra nutrients.
- 1 lemon: Freshly squeezed to give the salad a bright, zesty lift that ties everything together.
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing: I prefer Ken’s Steak House for a zesty flavor that enhances each ingredient without stealing the spotlight.
- 1 pinch oregano: A fragrant herb that lends a Mediterranean vibe to the salad.
- 1.5 cups cottage cheese: I use Good Culture for a thicker, creamier consistency that brings protein and richness.
- Salt to taste: Essential for balancing flavors and bringing out the natural sweetness of the veggies.
- Pepper to taste: Adds a gentle warmth that rounds out the salad’s flavor profile.
How to Make High Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This ensures the pasta holds its shape and tenderness when tossed with the other ingredients. Drain the pasta and rinse it briefly under cold water to stop cooking and keep it cool for the salad.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the pasta is cooking, dice your cucumber, tomatoes, yellow bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion and spinach. These fresh veggies are the backbone of your salad’s crisp and colorful texture, providing a refreshing contrast to the creamy cottage cheese.
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Italian dressing, the freshly squeezed juice of one lemon, and a pinch of oregano. This combination brings a zesty and aromatic flair that binds the entire salad together beautifully.
Step 4: Toss Everything Together
Add the cooked pasta, diced vegetables, chopped spinach, and cottage cheese into the bowl with the dressing. Gently mix until every piece is coated evenly, allowing the creamy cottage cheese to mingle with the tangy dressing and vibrant veggies. Season with salt and pepper to taste for the perfect balance.
How to Serve High Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for an herbaceous boost and a pretty green finish. A few extra grinds of black pepper or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes also make for a nice touch if you crave a little kick.
Side Dishes
This salad stands out on its own but pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or a crisp green side salad for a complete meal. It’s also fantastic alongside crusty bread or a simple avocado toast for an easy, protein-packed lunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the salad in hollowed-out bell pepper halves for a charming, edible bowl that adds an extra layer of sweetness and crunch. Alternatively, layer it in mason jars for portable lunches or picnics, making it both practical and stunning to look at.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover High Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days for freshness, as the veggies may become softer over time and the dressing can separate slightly.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and the cottage cheese, freezing this salad is not recommended. The texture and taste could suffer, making it less enjoyable.
Reheating
This salad is designed to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Reheating isn’t ideal as it will alter the creamy texture of the cottage cheese and the crunch of the vegetables.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is perfect for holding the dressing and cottage cheese, you can swap in penne, fusilli, or even bow tie pasta depending on what you have on hand.
What if I don’t have Italian dressing?
No worries! You can make a quick homemade version with olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and some dried herbs, or substitute with your favorite vinaigrette to keep the salad flavorful.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this High Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad Recipe is vegetarian-friendly, thanks to the cottage cheese providing enough protein without the need for meat.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Definitely! Feel free to add veggies like shredded carrots, radishes, or even roasted red peppers to customize the salad to your taste and seasonal availability.
How high is the protein content in this salad?
The cottage cheese and pasta together create a protein-rich dish, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to increase their protein intake in a delicious and easy way.
Final Thoughts
This High Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad Recipe is one of those gems that feels like it was crafted just for you whether you want a quick meal or something to impress your friends at a backyard gathering. Its blend of creamy, crunchy, and tangy elements creates a lively dish that’s loaded with protein and bursting with flavor. Give it a try and make it a staple in your recipe rotation—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A vibrant and protein-packed pasta salad featuring creamy cottage cheese, fresh vegetables, and zesty Italian dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or a nutritious side dish, this recipe combines the satisfying texture of rotini pasta with the freshness of cucumber, tomatoes, bell pepper, spinach, and a hint of oregano for a delicious Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 14 oz Barilla rotini pasta
- 1 large cucumber, diced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1.5 cups tomatoes, halved or quartered
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 1/2 cup spinach, chopped into 1/2-inch ribbons
Dressing and Seasoning
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (Ken’s Steak House preferred)
- 1 pinch oregano
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Protein
- 1.5 cups cottage cheese (Good Culture recommended for thickness and creaminess)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the 14 oz of rotini pasta. Cook according to package directions until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, dice the cucumber into 1/2-inch pieces, halve or quarter the tomatoes, dice the yellow bell pepper into 1/2-inch pieces, finely dice the red onion, and chop the spinach into ribbons approximately 1/2-inch wide. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix the Dressing: Zest and juice the lemon into a small bowl. Add 1/2 cup of Italian dressing and a pinch of oregano. Whisk together to combine the flavors well.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In the large mixing bowl with the vegetables, add the cooled pasta and 1.5 cups of thick cottage cheese. Pour the lemon and Italian dressing mixture over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss and Serve: Gently toss all ingredients until evenly coated with dressing and cottage cheese is well incorporated to add creaminess. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to chill and meld flavors before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute the Barilla rotini with any short pasta shape like penne or fusilli.
- For a dairy-free version, replace cottage cheese with a vegan alternative like tofu ricotta or cashew cream.
- Chilling the salad before serving enhances the flavor blending and makes it even more refreshing.
- Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil to deepen the aroma and taste if desired.
- Use a low-sodium Italian dressing to reduce the salt content if needed.
