This comforting Italian-inspired pasta dish combines tender fettuccine with a velvety sauce made from cottage cheese, milk, and cornstarch. The addition of diced ham adds a savory depth, while fresh peas and spinach provide a pop of color and nutrition. Finished with a sprinkle of nutmeg and paprika, it offers a creamy, home-style flavor profile that is both satisfying and light. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal, this recipe transforms simple pantry staples into an elegant main course. It’s a hearty yet healthy option that delivers rich textures without heavy cream, making it a versatile choice for busy cooks.
Straw And Hay
Description
This comforting Italian-inspired pasta dish combines tender fettuccine with a velvety sauce made from cottage cheese, milk, and cornstarch. The addition of diced ham adds a savory depth, while fresh peas and spinach provide a pop of color and nutrition. Finished with a sprinkle of nutmeg and paprika, it offers a creamy, home-style flavor profile that is both satisfying and light. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal, this recipe transforms simple pantry staples into an elegant main course. It&# 226;ÂÂs a hearty yet healthy option that delivers rich textures without heavy cream, making it a versatile choice for busy cooks.Ingredients
Directions
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Combine milk, cottage cheese, cornstarch, mace, and black pepper in a blender or food processor. Process until completely smooth. Set aside.
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Cook fettuccine noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
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Spray a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray. Heat over medium heat.
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Add diced ham and chopped chives to the skillet. Cook and stir until ham is lightly browned and heated through.
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Stir in the blended milk mixture and thawed peas. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and bubbles.
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Remove skillet from heat. Add the drained noodles and grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce.
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Toss gently to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce.
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Transfer to serving dishes and sprinkle with paprika. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 195.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 7.7g12%
- Saturated Fat 1.9g10%
- Cholesterol 25.4mg9%
- Sodium 698.7mg30%
- Total Carbohydrate 22.7g8%
- Dietary Fiber 1.1g5%
- Sugars 4.3g
- Protein 10.9g22%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For a richer flavor, you can substitute half-and-half for the skim milk, though this will increase the calorie count.
If you prefer a smoother sauce, ensure the cottage cheese is blended thoroughly until no lumps remain.
You can add other vegetables like diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the skillet along with the ham for extra nutrition and texture.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and add extra vegetables or cooked lentils for protein.
