Cook the pasta according to the package directions.
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Season the shrimp with paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet.
Add the shrimp and cook for approximately 2 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Add the garlic and cook briefly.
Add the lemon juice.
Add the cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water.
Toss well.
Add Parmesan and spinach.
Continue tossing until the spinach wilts and the sauce coats the pasta.
Garnish with parsley and another squeeze of lemon.
Why This Recipe Works
The shrimp cooks in minutes while adding a delicious savory flavor. Lemon keeps the dish fresh, while Parmesan adds richness.
4. High Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta
Cottage cheese has become a popular ingredient for creamy pasta sauces because it can be blended into a smooth, creamy mixture.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- ½ cup Parmesan
- 1 garlic clove
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Black pepper
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 cups spinach
- Fresh basil
Preparation
Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
While it cooks, add the cottage cheese, Parmesan, garlic, milk, Italian seasoning, and black pepper to a blender.
Blend until smooth and creamy.
Heat a skillet over medium-low heat.
Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften.
Add the spinach.
When the pasta is cooked, reserve some pasta water and drain it.
Add the pasta to the skillet.
Pour in the blended cottage cheese sauce.
Toss gently over low heat.
Add a little pasta water if needed to create a silky consistency.
Finish with fresh basil and Parmesan.
Important Tip
Avoid cooking the cottage cheese sauce over very high heat. Gentle warming produces a smoother result.
5. Turkey Meatball High Protein Pasta
Tender turkey meatballs and tomato sauce make this one of the most comforting options in the collection.