Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that’s quick to whip up, then Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is just the recipe for you! This dish has become a beloved staple in my home because it perfectly balances creamy goodness with fresh flavors. It’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when friends pop over unexpectedly.

What I love most about this gnocchi dish is how versatile it can be. Whether you’re serving it as a simple family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, everyone will leave the table happy and satisfied. Plus, if you’re like me and sometimes forget to plan ahead, this recipe is ready in just 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can have a delightful meal on the table—perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy sauce and cheesy goodness, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare everything in advance and simply bake when you’re ready to serve!
• Nutrient-Packed: The addition of spinach and artichokes adds both flavor and nutrition, making this a wholesome choice.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pesto and gouda creates a rich and satisfying taste experience that you’ll crave again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes, you’ll only need a handful of simple ingredients. They are wholesome and easily found at your local grocery store. Let’s gather what we need!

For the Gnocchi Dish

• 500 g gnocchi
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 yellow onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ tbsp dried oregano
• ½ tbsp dried basil
• 150 ml white grape juice (or water)
• 250 ml cream
• 250 ml water (or vegetable stock)
• 125 g baby spinach
• 280 g jar marinated artichokes (drained)
• 4 tbsp basil pesto
• 200 g gouda or similar cheese (grated)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Try Different Cheeses: If gouda isn’t your favorite, feel free to use mozzarella or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor.
• Swap the Protein: For added protein, consider adding cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use vegan cheese alternatives.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (356°F). This way, it’s nice and hot when your dish is ready for baking.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In a cast-iron skillet or stainless steel pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they soften and become fragrant—this step is key as it brings out the sweetness of the onions!

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Once your onion mixture is soft, add more oil if needed before tossing in the gnocchi. Cook while stirring occasionally until they turn lightly golden—about 3-5 minutes. This adds texture that enhances every bite!

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

Now it’s time to deglaze! Pour in your white grape juice or water, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the pan. This adds flavor depth! Then add cream along with water (or stock) and let everything simmer for about 5 minutes until the gnocchi are fully cooked.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

Stir in the basil pesto, baby spinach, and drained artichokes. The residual heat will wilt the spinach beautifully. To finish off this delightful dish, sprinkle on shredded gouda cheese before transferring it to the oven.

Step 6: Bake It Up

Bake your creamy goodness in the oven for about 15-20 minutes until the cheese melts into bubbly perfection!

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Serve this deliciously creamy pesto gnocchi straight from the pan for a rustic touch that everyone will adore. Enjoy every bite—you’ve earned it!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Cooking can sometimes feel daunting, but with a few helpful tips, you can make this creamy pesto gnocchi even more delightful!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality pesto will enhance the flavors of your dish, making every bite taste vibrant and delicious.

• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Gnocchi should be tender yet firm. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, so keep an eye on them while they simmer.

• Experiment with cheese: If gouda isn’t available, try using mozzarella or a blend of your favorite cheeses. Each will add its unique twist to the creamy sauce.

• Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers. They’ll add color and nutrition, making your dish even more appealing.

• Make it ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance and simply reheat it in the oven for a quick weeknight dinner.

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Presentation is key when serving this creamy delight! Here are some ideas to make your dish look as good as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of torn fresh basil adds a pop of color and enhances the Italian flavor profile.
• Parmesan cheese shavings: While not vegan, if you’re okay with dairy, a few shavings of parmesan on top will add a nutty finish.
• Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper brings out the flavors without overpowering the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the creaminess of the gnocchi perfectly. It’s great for soaking up any extra sauce!

• Mixed green salad: A simple salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides freshness that balances the richness of the meal.

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers offer additional texture and flavor while keeping things healthy.

• Steamed asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice is not only visually stunning but also adds a refreshing crunch beside your creamy pasta dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes will surely impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy a comforting meal whenever you want.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To keep the flavors fresh, try to consume within this timeframe.

Freezing

• Prepare the dish as usual, but do not bake it.
• Transfer the uncooked gnocchi mixture into a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen gnocchi overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, add your desired portion to a pan over medium heat. Stir in a splash of water or vegetable stock if needed.
• Heat until warmed through, then top with gouda and bake until melted, about 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe:

Can I use homemade pesto for Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes?

Absolutely! Homemade pesto will add a unique touch and allow you to control the flavors. Just ensure it’s well-seasoned before mixing it in.

How can I make my Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes dairy-free?

You can substitute the cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative. For cheese, try using vegan cheese shreds designed for melting.

What other vegetables can I add to Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes?

Feel free to mix in other veggies like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers. They’ll add extra flavor and nutrition!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes becomes a delightful addition to your dinner table! It’s comforting yet quick enough for busy nights, making it special in every way. Enjoy making this dish and savor every bite—your taste buds will thank you!