Creamy Cottage Cheese Pesto Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente, then reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.

While the pasta cooks, add the cottage cheese, basil, walnuts, garlic, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.

Return the drained pasta to the warm pot. Add the creamy pesto and toss until evenly coated, adding a splash of reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.

Taste and adjust with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice. Serve warm with your favorite protein or vegetables, plus extra Parmesan if desired.