Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, then you’re in the right place! This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is like a warm hug on a plate. It’s one of those recipes that I turn to when I want something quick but still packed with flavor. The combination of fresh baby spinach, tangy marinated artichokes, and rich gouda cheese makes this dish truly special. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where everyone is sure to go back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those nights when time is tight.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love gnocchi! The creamy sauce and cheesy topping make it a hit with everyone at the table.
• Versatile: This recipe can easily be adapted to include your favorite seasonal veggies or proteins.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time enjoying your delicious meal.
• Comfort Food Classic: Rich, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying; it’s like a cozy blanket for your taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything you need to whip up this tasty dish!

For the Gnocchi

• 500 g gnocchi
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 yellow onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ tbsp dried oregano
• ½ tbsp dried basil

For the Sauce

• 150 ml white grape juice (or water)
• 250 ml cream
• 250 ml water (or vegetable stock)

For the Veggies

• 125 g baby spinach
• 280 g jar marinated artichokes (drained)

For Topping

• 4 tbsp basil pesto
• 200 g gouda or similar cheese (grated)

Variations

One of the best things about this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is how flexible it is! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or what you love most.

• Swap the greens: Use kale or swiss chard instead of spinach for a different flavor.
• Add protein: Toss in cooked chicken, chickpeas, or sautéed shrimp to make it heartier.
• Change the cheese: Try mozzarella or fontina if gouda isn’t available; they melt beautifully!
• Herb options: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can brighten this dish even more.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (356°F). In a cast-iron skillet or stainless steel pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become soft and fragrant. This step is essential as it develops a sweet base flavor that will enhance the entire dish. After about 3-4 minutes, stir in dried oregano and basil; let them cook for another minute to release their aromatic oils.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

Add more olive oil if needed and toss in the gnocchi. Let them cook until they’re lightly golden brown—this should take about 3-5 minutes. Cooking them in this way adds a delightful texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Now it’s time to deglaze! Pour in the white grape juice (or water) while scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This step adds depth to your sauce. Next, stir in cream and water (or vegetable stock), allowing everything to simmer together for about 5 minutes until the gnocchi are cooked through.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Gently fold in pesto, fresh spinach, and marinated artichokes. You’ll notice that the heat will cause the spinach to wilt perfectly. Then spread shredded gouda cheese over top—it’s going to melt into a glorious layer of gooey goodness as it bakes!

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Transfer your skillet into the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make it hard to resist!

Step 6: Serve With Love

Once done, serve directly from the pan—no need for extra dishes! Enjoy every bite of this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes as you gather around with family or friends. It’s sure to become a new favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Cooking should be a joy, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your creamy pesto gnocchi to perfection!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality basil pesto can significantly enhance the flavor of this dish, making it taste vibrant and delicious.

• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Keep an eye on the gnocchi as it cooks. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for that perfect al dente bite!

• Adjust creaminess to your liking: If you prefer a lighter dish, feel free to reduce the amount of cream or substitute part of it with vegetable stock for a more broth-like consistency.

• Experiment with cheeses: While gouda adds a lovely richness, trying different cheeses like mozzarella or fontina can offer new flavor profiles and textures.

• Customize your veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added color and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the onion!

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Presenting your creamy pesto gnocchi beautifully not only makes it more appetizing but also showcases your culinary skills. Here are some simple yet effective ways to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few sprigs of fresh basil add a pop of color and enhance the aroma.
• Grated parmesan cheese: While not required, a light dusting of grated parmesan can add an extra layer of flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Chili flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some chili flakes on top to add both spice and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce and adds a comforting element to your meal.
• Mixed greens salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the gnocchi beautifully.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and crunch, creating a well-rounded meal.
• Steamed broccoli: A side of steamed broccoli provides an extra serving of greens while balancing out the creaminess of the main dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions in hand, you’re all set to create a meal that’s not only satisfying but also brimming with flavor. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is a fantastic option for meal prep! It’s easy to make in advance, and the flavors meld beautifully when stored, making it an ideal candidate for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion the gnocchi into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or stock to prevent sticking.
• Stir until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you may have about making this delightful dish!

Can I use fresh basil instead of pesto in Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes?

Yes! You can blend fresh basil with olive oil, garlic, and nuts for a homemade pesto. This will enhance the freshness of your dish!

How can I make Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes healthier?

You can substitute half of the cream with Greek yogurt for added protein, or use whole grain gnocchi for more fiber.

What other vegetables can I add to this recipe?

Feel free to get creative! Peas, bell peppers, or zucchini would all complement the flavors wonderfully.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products.

How do I ensure my gnocchi doesn’t become mushy?

Make sure to cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float, then immediately transfer them to the sauce. Avoid overcooking during assembly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes a try! It’s a comforting dish that brings together rich flavors and wholesome ingredients in just 30 minutes. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or part of your meal prep routine, I know you’ll enjoy every bite. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your delicious results!