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Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad

Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad: A Protein-Packed Delight

Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad is a vibrant, protein-rich meal perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Rotini Pasta This shape holds the dressing and veggies well.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Cucumber Pat dry to prevent excess moisture.
  • 1 cup Tomatoes Halve or quarter for easy eating.
  • 1 medium Yellow Bell Pepper Dice into 1/2-inch pieces for great texture.
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion Finely diced for better distribution.
  • 2 cups Spinach Chop into ribbons for easy mixing.
For the Dressing
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Fresh juice is best for enhancing flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Italian Dressing Ken's Steak House recommended for a zesty kick.
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano Adds herbal notes to enhance flavor.
For the Protein
  • 2 cups Cottage Cheese Opt for full-fat for creaminess or low-fat for a lighter touch.
For Seasoning
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Adjust to taste to enhance flavors.

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Pot
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Wash and prepare your vegetables. Dice the cucumber, halve the tomatoes, and chop the yellow bell pepper into 1/2-inch pieces. Finely chop the red onion and slice the spinach into ribbons. Place all veggies in a large bowl.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook for 8–10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. After the pasta has cooled, add it to the bowl with the vegetables. Toss everything together gently.
  4. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture, then drizzle in the Italian dressing and sprinkle with oregano. Toss gently to coat evenly.
  5. Fold in the cottage cheese gently. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill for at least an hour before serving for enhanced flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 18gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 480mgPotassium: 470mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

This salad can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing for best texture. Add delicate greens right before serving to keep them crisp.

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