This baked penne dish combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the rich flavors of eggplant, salami, and vibrant vegetables. The tangy bite of banana peppers and the savory touch of mozzarella cheese give this dish a comforting yet flavorful twist, perfect for a cozy dinner night at home.
It’s a versatile recipe that can be tailored to your preferences by switching out the salami for a vegetarian version or using different vegetables based on what’s in season. This one-dish meal is great for weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying with minimal prep and cleanup.
Full Recipe:
- 12 ounces penne
- 12 ounces cherry tomatoes
- One 4-ounce can sliced black olives, drained
- 4 ounces hard Italian salami, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
- 2 cups packed baby spinach
- 1 cup sliced banana pepper rings
- 2 tablespoons drained capers
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 small eggplant (about 12 ounces), peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 16 ounces (2 cups) 4% milkfat cottage cheese
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella (about 2 cups)
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the uncooked penne evenly.
- Top with cherry tomatoes, olives, salami, spinach, banana peppers, capers, garlic, eggplant, and bell pepper. Season with 1 tablespoon salt and pepper.
- Pour in 2 cups of water, then spoon cottage cheese over the top.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 55-60 minutes, until the penne is al dente and the cottage cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Uncover the dish, drizzle with balsamic vinegar, and stir the ingredients together.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top, then bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden.
- Let the dish cool for 10 minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 6-8 servings
Baked Penne with Cottage Cheese, Eggplant, and Salami: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Comfort Dish
Baked pasta dishes have long been a staple in both Italian and global kitchens, offering an easy, versatile, and crowd-pleasing meal option. The Baked Penne with Cottage Cheese, Eggplant, and Salami takes this traditional concept and elevates it with a mix of hearty ingredients, savory flavors, and creamy textures. This dish combines elements of a classic antipasti platter and a comforting pasta bake, creating something uniquely satisfying and incredibly flavorful.
The Essence of the Dish
At its core, this recipe is an ode to balance—combining tangy cottage cheese with the robust flavor of salami and the earthiness of eggplant. These ingredients come together to form a creamy, savory casserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even meal prep for busy days. While many baked pasta dishes rely heavily on cream sauces or cheeses like ricotta, this one brings cottage cheese into the spotlight, giving it a silky texture and a slightly tangy flavor that sets it apart from other baked pasta dishes.
Why Cottage Cheese?
Cottage cheese is having a moment in modern cooking. For a long time, it was relegated to simple salads or as a side dish, but in recent years, chefs and home cooks alike have begun to realize its versatility. Here’s why it works so well in this recipe:
- High in Protein: Cottage cheese offers a great source of protein without adding excessive fat. A single serving packs a hefty protein punch, making it ideal for anyone looking for a nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
- Creamy Without the Calories: While it’s creamy, cottage cheese is much lighter than alternatives like cream or ricotta, making it a smart choice for those looking to cut calories without sacrificing texture.
- Subtle Tanginess: The mild, slightly tangy flavor of cottage cheese complements the rich flavors of salami and the sweetness of roasted vegetables, creating a balanced taste profile that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
The Role of Eggplant in the Dish
Eggplant is another key player in this recipe, lending its velvety texture and slightly sweet, earthy flavor. Often used in Mediterranean cooking, eggplant brings an added layer of richness to this dish while also making it more filling. Here’s why eggplant shines in this recipe:
- Low-Calorie Yet Satisfying: Eggplant is a low-calorie vegetable that adds bulk and texture to the dish without overwhelming the other ingredients.
- Absorbs Flavors Well: When baked, eggplant soaks up the flavors around it, especially the garlic, salami, and balsamic vinegar in this recipe, enhancing its depth and richness.
- Nutrient-Dense: Eggplant is rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, making this dish not just delicious but also nutritionally balanced.
The Savory Kick of Salami
Salami is used in this recipe as a way to introduce a savory, umami-packed kick. Its salty, fatty profile contrasts beautifully with the mild cottage cheese and tender vegetables, creating a medley of flavors that is hard to resist. Here’s why it works:
- Adds a Meaty Flavor: Salami provides a flavorful burst of cured meat without needing a large quantity. Even a small amount of finely chopped salami can enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Contrasts with Veggies: The meaty, slightly spicy flavor of salami is a great contrast to the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, the earthiness of eggplant, and the fresh taste of baby spinach.
- Customizable: Not a fan of salami? You can easily substitute it with a vegetarian sausage or omit it altogether for a meatless option, and the dish will still maintain its delicious, balanced flavor.
Other Key Ingredients and Flavor Boosters
- Cherry Tomatoes: These little bursts of sweetness add a refreshing contrast to the savory components of the dish, brightening up the flavors.
- Spinach: Packed with nutrients like iron and vitamins, baby spinach adds a healthy dose of greens while contributing to the creamy texture.
- Banana Peppers & Capers: These add a zesty, tangy bite to the dish, balancing out the richness from the cheese and salami.
- Balsamic Vinegar: A drizzle of balsamic vinegar right before the final bake enhances the sweetness of the roasted vegetables and gives the entire dish a pleasant acidic balance.
- Mozzarella: The final layer of melted mozzarella adds that indulgent, cheesy finish that is essential in any good pasta bake.
Health Benefits of the Dish
While baked pasta dishes are often associated with indulgence, this particular recipe has several health-conscious components:
- Rich in Protein and Fiber: Between the cottage cheese, vegetables, and whole wheat penne (if you choose to use it), this dish is loaded with both protein and fiber. This makes it more filling, helping to control portion sizes and hunger throughout the day.
- Packed with Vegetables: The use of eggplant, cherry tomatoes, and spinach ensures that you’re getting a wide array of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Low in Fat: Despite its creamy texture, cottage cheese is relatively low in fat compared to traditional cream or cheese-based sauces, making this dish lighter while still satisfying.
Versatility and Customization
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be adapted to different dietary needs and preferences. Here are some ideas for customizing the dish:
- Vegetarian Option: Simply omit the salami or replace it with a plant-based alternative, like soy-based sausage or a seasoned tofu crumble.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta, and the rest of the ingredients can remain the same, making this a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Vegan Twist: Swap the cottage cheese for a vegan cheese or silken tofu, and replace the mozzarella with a plant-based cheese alternative. You’ll still get that creamy texture without any dairy.
- Low-Carb Variation: Substitute the penne with a low-carb pasta option like shirataki noodles or zucchini noodles. This will cut down on the carbs while keeping the flavor intact.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with several sides and accompaniments:
- Simple Green Salad: A light salad with a lemon vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the pasta and refresh the palate.
- Garlic Bread: Who can resist a slice of crusty garlic bread with baked pasta? It’s the perfect way to soak up any extra sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: While this dish already has its fair share of veggies, a side of roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots could complement the flavors nicely.
Storage and Meal Prep
One of the standout qualities of this recipe is how well it stores and reheats, making it perfect for meal prep:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Freeze: If you want to make this ahead of time, assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and freeze it before baking. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights or when you need a meal ready to go.
Conclusion
The Baked Penne with Cottage Cheese, Eggplant, and Salami is not just a delicious, comforting meal; it’s a versatile and healthy option that can be tailored to suit a variety of tastes and dietary needs. With its unique blend of ingredients like creamy cottage cheese, savory salami, and nutrient-rich vegetables, this pasta bake offers a satisfying and balanced flavor profile.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty family dinner, a dish to impress at a potluck, or an easy make-ahead meal for busy nights, this recipe checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra vegetables and protein without sacrificing flavor or indulgence. Try it out and enjoy the delightful combination of tastes and textures that this dish offers.