Creamy Pesto Gnocchi With Spinash : A Comforting, Flavorful Meal

Yield: 4 servings.

Total Time: 25-30 minutes.

If you’re looking for a comforting yet healthy meal that’s quick and easy to make, Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach is the perfect dish for you. This creamy, flavorful recipe combines soft, pillowy gnocchi with a vibrant pesto sauce and fresh spinach, making it an irresistible choice for lunch or dinner. It’s a meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it suitable for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Whether you’re a fan of Italian cuisine or simply enjoy a flavorful dish that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, this creamy pesto gnocchi will become a staple in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach

• Easy and Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight.
• Comforting and Satisfying: The creamy pesto sauce is rich yet balanced with fresh spinach.
• Nutritious: Spinach is packed with iron and vitamins, and gnocchi provides a satisfying base for the dish.
• Kid-Friendly: A great way to sneak in some greens while enjoying a delicious meal.
• Customizable: You can easily modify the recipe to meet dietary needs (gluten-free, vegan, etc.).

Key Ingredients & Their Health Benefits

Gnocchi

Gnocchi are small Italian potato dumplings that offer a soft, comforting texture. They’re rich in carbohydrates, providing a good source of energy, and can be made with a variety of flours to accommodate different dietary needs (e.g., gluten-free gnocchi).

Pesto Sauce

Traditional pesto is made with basil, olive oil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan. This nutrient-packed sauce is high in antioxidants from basil and healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts, making it an excellent source of vitamins and energy.

Spinach

Fresh spinach is packed with iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C. It’s an excellent leafy green to add to your meals for a boost of nutrition, especially beneficial for maintaining healthy skin, bones, and immune function.

Heavy Cream

Heavy cream adds a rich, smooth texture to the sauce, making the dish extra creamy. It’s also a source of calcium and fat, contributing to the overall indulgent feel of the recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) gnocchi
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 garlic clove, minced

Preparation:

1. Cook the Gnocchi
   In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions (typically 2-3 minutes or until they float). Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Pesto Sauce
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the pesto sauce and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
3. Add Spinach
   Add the chopped spinach to the sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes until it wilts down.
4. Combine with Gnocchi
   Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss gently to coat with the creamy pesto sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the gnocchi absorbs some of the sauce.
5. Finish with Parmesan
   Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
6. Serve
   Serve the creamy pesto gnocchi immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan or a drizzle of pesto, if desired.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Pesto Gnocchi

• Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks quickly—once they float, they’re done. Overcooking them can make them mushy.
• Customize Your Pesto: If you don’t have pine nuts, substitute with walnuts or sunflower seeds for a different flavor.
• Balance the Cream: If you prefer a lighter version, reduce the amount of cream and add a splash of vegetable broth to keep the sauce creamy but less rich.

Variations & Customizations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gnocchi to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Vegan: Swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil to spice up the dish.
• Protein-Packed: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make this a more substantial meal.
• Kid-Friendly: If your kids aren’t fans of spinach, blend the pesto with some extra cheese for a more appealing texture.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Watermelon Mint Cooler.

Garlic Chicken with Spinach Recipes.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to bring back its creamy texture.
• Freezing: While gnocchi and pesto can be frozen separately, the creamy sauce may not retain its smooth texture after freezing. If you plan to freeze this dish, consider freezing the gnocchi and pesto sauce separately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi is perfectly fine for this recipe. You can also make homemade gnocchi if you prefer.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or any dairy-free cream. Additionally, use dairy-free pesto and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

How do I make pesto at home?

To make homemade pesto, blend together fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese (optional), and olive oil until smooth. You can add a bit of lemon juice or salt to taste.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a plant-based protein like tofu would work wonderfully in this recipe.

How do I make the pesto spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use a spicy variety of pesto. You can also drizzle some chili oil over the finished dish for extra heat.

Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach is a perfect blend of creamy, flavorful, and nutritious ingredients that come together in a satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea or a dish that can easily be customized to fit your dietary needs, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your version with us online!

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