Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish to brighten your weeknights, look no further than this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes. This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my kitchen because it’s not only easy to whip up but also bursting with flavor. Imagine the smoothness of creamy sauce, the vibrant greens of spinach, and the delightful tang of marinated artichokes all mingling together – it’s pure magic!

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just treating yourself after a long day, this dish hits all the right notes. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Let me show you how to create this delicious meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, even picky eaters will love it.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of pesto, spinach, and artichokes creates a taste experience that can’t be beaten.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prep ingredients in advance and enjoy a hassle-free cooking experience later on.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out veggies or cheeses based on what you have on hand!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! For this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes, you’ll only need simple and wholesome items that are easy to find at any grocery store. Here’s what you’ll 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own. Here are some ideas:

• Add more veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Change the cheese: If gouda isn’t your favorite, try mozzarella or a tangy goat cheese instead.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or fresh chili for a little heat if you like things spicy!
• Swap the protein: For added substance, consider mixing in some cooked chicken or chickpeas.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

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 the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant; this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Sautéing the onions until translucent brings out their sweetness, which forms a flavorful base for your dish.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

If needed, add a touch more olive oil before tossing in the gnocchi. Cook them while stirring occasionally until they turn lightly golden – this should take around 3-5 minutes. Cooking them just right adds texture and gives them that delightful bite.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pan

Now it’s time to deglaze! Pour in your white grape juice or water, using a wooden spoon to scrape up those lovely browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. These bits are packed with flavor! Afterward, add cream and either water or vegetable stock. Let everything simmer for about 5 minutes until the gnocchi is fully cooked.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Stir in your basil pesto along with baby spinach and drained artichokes. As you mix everything together, you’ll see the spinach wilt from the heat – this adds freshness to our creamy dish! Top it off with shredded gouda before transferring it to your preheated oven.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake everything for about 15-20 minutes until that cheesy topping becomes melted and golden brown. The result? A bubbling dish full of comfort that you can serve directly from the pan!

Enjoy every bite of this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes; I promise it’ll become a staple meal in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Cooking this delightful creamy pesto gnocchi is not only easy but can also be made even more enjoyable with a few handy tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality pesto will enhance the flavor of the dish significantly. Fresh herbs provide a vibrant taste that dried herbs can’t match, making each bite burst with freshness.

• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Gnocchi should be cooked just until they float in the boiling water. Overcooking makes them mushy. This ensures they maintain their delightful pillowy texture, adding to the overall enjoyment of your meal.

• Add a pinch of nutmeg: A small dash of nutmeg in the cream sauce can elevate the flavors beautifully. Nutmeg adds warmth and complexity, bringing out the creaminess of the dish without overpowering it.

• Experiment with cheese: While gouda is delicious, feel free to try other cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for a different flavor profile. Each cheese melts differently, so you might discover a new favorite combination!

• Make it ahead: This dish can be prepped in advance by cooking the gnocchi and preparing the sauce separately. Just combine them and bake when you’re ready to serve. This makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights or meal prep!

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Presentation is key when serving this creamy pesto gnocchi! A little thought into how you plate this dish will surely impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: Sprinkle whole or torn fresh basil on top before serving for an aromatic touch that enhances visual appeal.
• Cracked black pepper: A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper adds a bit of spice and sophistication to your dish.
• Parmesan cheese: Grating some dairy-free parmesan over the top adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness that complements the flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered in garlic-infused olive oil pairs beautifully, providing a crunchy contrast to the creamy gnocchi.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the main dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots add color and nutrients while enhancing your meal’s depth.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus brings brightness and elegance to your table while being healthy and delicious.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create not just a meal, but a delightful experience around your table! Enjoy your creamy pesto gnocchi with spinach and artichokes!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes recipe is fantastic for meal prep! You can whip it up ahead of time and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal throughout the week.

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 it fresh, avoid mixing in the cheese until you’re ready to reheat.

Freezing

• Portion out the gnocchi into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• For best results, freeze without baking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream to prevent sticking.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful dish.

Can I use a different type of cheese in Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes?

Absolutely! While gouda adds a rich flavor, you can substitute with mozzarella, fontina, or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for an alternative.

How long does Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s cooled down before storing!

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! To make your Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes vegan, swap out the cream for coconut cream or cashew cream and use a plant-based cheese alternative.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and can be easily reheated throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes as much as I do! It’s not just a quick dinner; it’s a warm hug on your plate. Perfectly creamy, packed with flavor, and oh-so-comforting! Don’t hesitate to try it out—I’m sure it’ll become one of your go-to meals. Happy cooking!