Description
This Creamy Cottage Cheese Orzo is a delicious and satisfying main course that is easy to make and packed with flavor. The creamy texture of cottage cheese combined with orzo pasta creates a comforting dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Orzo Pasta:
1 cup dry orzo pasta
Cottage Cheese Mixture:
1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat), 1 tablespoon olive oil, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%), 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Additions:
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 1 cup baby spinach or chopped kale
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: Cook the orzo in a pot of salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare Cottage Cheese Mixture: Sauté garlic in olive oil, then add cottage cheese and milk to the skillet. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and lemon juice until smooth and heated through.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet, stir to combine. If using, add spinach or kale and cook until wilted. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, blend the cottage cheese before adding to the skillet.
- You can add sautéed mushrooms or grilled chicken for more protein.
- Substitute milk with a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
