Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad

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I’ve always been a fan of pasta salads, especially during warmer months when I crave something light, fresh, and satisfying. This Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad has quickly become a go-to in my kitchen — it’s creamy without being heavy, full of crunchy vegetables, and perfectly seasoned. The unexpected star? Cottage cheese. It adds a rich creaminess and a boost of protein that makes this dish not just delicious, but also nourishing.

What I love most is how effortlessly it comes together. With farfalle pasta as the base, crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and sweet bell peppers tossed in, this salad bursts with texture and color. The cottage cheese blends into the mix beautifully, creating a smooth coating that ties everything together. It’s the kind of dish you’ll find yourself making for picnics, meal preps, or just a lazy dinner when you want something fast but flavorful.

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Why You’ll Love This Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad

This recipe is a dream for anyone who wants something healthy, tasty, and incredibly easy to make. The cottage cheese not only adds creaminess but makes this salad protein-rich and satisfying. It’s also a great way to sneak in veggies without feeling like you’re “eating healthy.” Plus, it’s completely customizable — add or swap out vegetables to suit what you have on hand. Whether you’re serving it cold for lunch or as a side for grilled chicken at dinner, it’s always a hit.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

I used farfalle (bowtie pasta) for its fun shape and ability to hold onto the creamy dressing, but you can truly use any short pasta you love. Penne, rotini, or even shells work well. Just make sure to cook it al dente so it doesn’t get mushy once mixed with the cottage cheese and veggies. Whole wheat or legume-based pastas are great options if you want to up the fiber or keep it gluten-free.

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Options for Substitutions

This recipe is flexible, so don’t be afraid to make it your own. Don’t like cucumbers? Try shredded carrots or chopped broccoli. No cherry tomatoes? Diced sun-dried tomatoes are a great swap. You can also use Greek yogurt or a mix of cream cheese and milk if you’re not into cottage cheese. Want a flavor boost? Stir in some pesto or a dash of garlic powder. The salad adapts easily to what you have in your fridge.

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Ingredients for This Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad

Farfalle Pasta (Bowtie Pasta): A sturdy and fun-shaped pasta that holds the creamy dressing well without getting soggy.

Cottage Cheese: The heart of the dressing. It adds protein, creaminess, and a mild tang that balances the fresh veggies.

Cherry Tomatoes: Bursting with sweetness and juice, they add freshness and color to every bite.

Cucumber: Brings crunch and a cool, refreshing contrast to the creamy base.

Yellow Bell Pepper: Adds sweetness, crunch, and vibrant color. It also pairs beautifully with the cottage cheese.

Fresh Spinach: Gives the salad a touch of green and earthy flavor while increasing the nutrient value.

Olive Oil: Helps loosen the cottage cheese slightly for a smoother coating.

Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the overall flavor.

Optional: Garlic Powder or Dried Italian Herbs: For added depth and a flavor twist.

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the farfalle pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside.

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Step 2: Prep the Vegetables

While the pasta is cooking, chop the cucumber into half-moons, slice the cherry tomatoes in half, dice the yellow bell pepper, and roughly chop the spinach. Keep the veggies crisp and fresh.

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Step 3: Mix the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese with a drizzle of olive oil. Add a pinch of salt, black pepper, and any optional seasonings like garlic powder or dried herbs. Mix until smooth and creamy.

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Step 4: Combine Pasta and Veggies

Add the cooked pasta to the bowl with the cottage cheese dressing. Then, toss in the chopped vegetables. Gently mix everything together until the pasta and veggies are fully coated in the creamy mixture.

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Step 5: Chill Before Serving (Optional but Recommended)

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and the texture to firm up slightly.

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Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Give the salad a final toss, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with freshly ground black pepper or a sprinkle of herbs, then serve cold.

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How Long to Prepare the Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad

Prep Time: You’ll need about 20 minutes to get everything ready. That includes cooking the pasta, chopping the veggies, and mixing the dressing.

Chill Time (Optional): Letting the salad chill for 30 minutes to 1 hour in the fridge really enhances the flavor. If you’re in a rush, you can serve it immediately, but it’s definitely better after resting.

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Tips for Perfect Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad

• Use Full-Fat Cottage Cheese: It makes the dressing richer and creamier.
• Rinse the Pasta: This stops the cooking process and keeps the noodles from sticking together.
• Chop Vegetables Evenly: For a pleasant texture and balanced bites.
• Let it Chill: Even just 30 minutes in the fridge lets the flavors meld beautifully.
• Season Well: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper — cottage cheese needs seasoning to shine.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Pasta: Mushy pasta doesn’t hold up well in salads.
• Skipping the Rinse: Hot pasta will steam and wilt the veggies if not cooled.
• Using Watery Cottage Cheese: Drain off excess liquid to avoid a runny salad.
• Underseasoning: Taste and adjust! Bland pasta salad is easy to fix.
• Adding Veggies Too Early: Especially watery ones like cucumber — add them last to retain crunch.

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What to Serve With Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad?

Grilled Chicken Skewers

The light, tangy salad pairs wonderfully with smoky, savory grilled chicken.

Garlic Bread

A crunchy slice of garlic bread on the side makes this a more complete and comforting meal.

Roasted Vegetables

Add warm roasted veggies like zucchini or eggplant for a hearty contrast.

Baked Salmon

A protein-rich option that’s elegant and pairs well with the creamy texture of the salad.

Fresh Fruit Platter

A refreshing way to round out a picnic or summer dinner table.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3–4 days. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Freezing: Not recommended. The texture of the cottage cheese and fresh vegetables won’t hold up well after thawing.

Meal Prep Tip: You can prep the veggies and pasta separately and mix everything together just before serving for maximum freshness.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving — based on 6 servings)

• Calories: ~280 kcal
• Protein: 13g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 350mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the salad from drying out?

If it sits in the fridge for a while, add a tablespoon of olive oil or a dollop of cottage cheese before serving to refresh the texture.

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. Make it up to a day in advance and store in the fridge.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable.

Can I use low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese?

You can, but the dressing will be less creamy and slightly more watery. Full-fat is best for texture.

What other add-ins work well?

Try olives, artichoke hearts, shredded carrots, or even grilled corn for variety.

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Conclusion

Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad is one of those effortlessly delicious recipes that manages to be both healthy and indulgent. It’s simple to put together, endlessly adaptable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for lunch, a picnic, or a light dinner, this salad delivers freshness, texture, and a satisfying creamy finish in every bite. Once you try it, it’ll quickly become a staple in your weekly rotation.

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