Are you ready to indulge in a creamy, dreamy dish that’s both satisfying and guilt-free? Introducing the "One Point Protein Alfredo"—a delightful twist on the classic Italian favorite that will leave your taste buds dancing! With just 20 minutes of your time, you can whip up a luscious, protein-packed pasta that serves four and is perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests. Imagine twirling al dente fettuccine in a velvety sauce made from low-fat cottage cheese and Parmesan, all while keeping your health goals in check. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this irresistible recipe!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add fettuccine pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine low-fat cottage cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- When pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Return the drained pasta to the pot and immediately add the blended cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly.
- If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency. Mix well.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Always remember to stir the fettuccine occasionally while it cooks to prevent it from sticking together. Aim for al dente pasta for the best texture!
- Smooth Sauce: For an ultra-creamy sauce, ensure your blender or food processor is thoroughly clean. This will help achieve a silky consistency without any lumps.
- Adjusting Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, don’t hesitate to add a bit more of the reserved pasta water. This not only thins the sauce but also helps it cling better to the pasta.
- Flavor Boost: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of lemon juice to the sauce for a bright, zesty finish.
- Garnish Wisely: Serve your Alfredo with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a few fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
- Meal Prep: This dish is great for meal prep! Make a larger batch and store it in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 318kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 19g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
