Go Back

Creamy Protein-Packed Pasta Bowl

A cozy weeknight dinner featuring pasta, tender chicken or tofu, wilted spinach, juicy tomatoes, and a creamy yogurt-Parmesan sauce that is easy to prepare and forgiving for beginners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Bowl
  • 8 oz pasta of choice Use a shape you like.
  • 1 cup cooked chicken or tofu Pick whichever you prefer.
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt Provides creaminess and protein.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds savory depth.
  • 1 cup spinach Fresh greens that will wilt into the pasta.
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Adds sweetness and freshness.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Aromatic backbone of the dish.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Simple seasoning to balance flavors.
  • to taste Olive oil for cooking Used to sauté garlic and heat the protein.

Method
 

Cook the Pasta
  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
Sauté Ingredients
  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  2. Stir in cooked chicken or tofu, and cook until heated through.
  3. Add spinach and cherry tomatoes, cooking until spinach is wilted.
Prepare Sauce and Combine
  1. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese together until creamy.
  2. Combine the pasta with the yogurt mixture and the skillet contents.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm.

Notes

Serve warm right after tossing so the sauce clings. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheating may require a splash of water or olive oil to restore creaminess.