Creamy Vegetarian Protein Pasta – High Protein Dinner Recipe Without Meat

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready to enjoy a comforting, creamy pasta that’s rich in protein—without any meat at all?

There’s something deeply satisfying about a creamy pasta dinner, especially when it’s made with care and nourishing ingredients. This Creamy Vegetarian Protein Pasta is inspired by traditional home-style cooking, where simple pantry staples are transformed into a hearty, soul-warming meal. 🍝💛 It proves that you don’t need meat to create a dinner that’s filling, balanced, and full of flavor.

In many kitchens, pasta has always been a foundation for comfort—easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and perfect for bringing people together. In this recipe, protein-rich pasta and creamy Greek yogurt (or plant-based alternatives) work together with garlic, herbs, and vegetables to create a sauce that’s luscious without being heavy. Cottage cheese or white beans add extra protein while keeping the texture smooth and satisfying.

This dish is ideal for busy weeknights, meatless Mondays, or anytime you want something cozy but wholesome. It’s warm, familiar, and gently indulgent, with flavors that feel both modern and timeless. Best of all, it comes together quickly, making it practical as well as comforting.

Serve it steaming hot, maybe with a simple salad or crusty bread, and enjoy a meal that feels generous and nourishing—just the way traditional food should be. 🌿✨

Ingredients

• ▢ 12 ounces high-protein pasta (chickpea, lentil, or protein-enriched wheat)
• ▢ 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ▢ 1 small onion, finely diced
• ▢ 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ▢ 1 cup cottage cheese or plain Greek yogurt
• ▢ ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ▢ ½ cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
• ▢ 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• ▢ ½ teaspoon paprika
• ▢ Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ▢ 2 cups vegetables of choice (spinach, broccoli, peas, or mushrooms)
• ▢ Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
4. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add vegetables and cook 3–5 minutes until tender (leafy greens will wilt quickly).
6. Lower heat and stir in cottage cheese (or yogurt), Parmesan, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
7. Slowly add reserved pasta water, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
8. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat every piece.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
10. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.

Nutritional Information

⏰ Prep Time: 10 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 15 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 25 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~450
🍽️ Servings: 4

High in protein, rich in calcium and fiber, and completely meat-free—this pasta is both comforting and energizing.

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Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩‍🍳🍽️