Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

If you’re looking for a dish that delights the senses and warms the heart, you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is one of my absolute favorites. It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting but don’t have much time to spare. The combination of tender gnocchi, fresh baby spinach, and tangy marinated artichokes creates a rich and flavorful experience that everyone can enjoy.

Whether you’re hosting a cozy family gathering or simply treating yourself to a delicious dinner at home, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with wholesome ingredients that make every bite feel special. Trust me; once you try it, this dish will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and mild flavors, even picky eaters will love it.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep ingredients in advance for an even quicker cooking time.
• Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy as-is or customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.
• Comforting Flavor: The rich gouda cheese combined with pesto makes each bite a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the simple and wholesome ingredients that bring this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes to life. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store!

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! Feel free to get creative and adjust it to suit your taste preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add more veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Swap gouda for mozzarella or a dairy-free cheese for a lighter option.
• Boost the protein: Add cooked chicken, chickpeas, or cannellini beans to make it heartier.
• Spice it up: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

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 over medium heat, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in olive oil until they are soft and fragrant—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Sautéing these aromatics enhances their natural sweetness, creating a lovely base for your sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

If needed, add a bit more olive oil before tossing in the gnocchi. Cook them while stirring occasionally until they turn lightly golden, which should take around 3-5 minutes. This step gives them a wonderful texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pan

Once your gnocchi are golden brown, deglaze the pan by adding white grape juice (or water). Use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan—these bits add fantastic flavor! Then pour in the cream and water (or vegetable stock), letting everything simmer together for about 5 minutes until the gnocchi is perfectly cooked.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Now it’s time to stir in that vibrant basil pesto along with fresh baby spinach and marinated artichokes. The heat will wilt the spinach beautifully. Top everything with shredded gouda cheese before transferring your skillet to the oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown—a divine sight!

Step 5: Serve

Finally, serve your creamy pesto gnocchi straight from the pan! This not only keeps it warm but also adds to its rustic charm. Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Cooking can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve to make your dishes turn out even better!

• Use fresh ingredients: Using fresh baby spinach and high-quality marinated artichokes enhances the flavor profile of your dish, making it taste more vibrant and delicious.

• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Cooking the gnocchi just until they float ensures they are tender yet firm, maintaining their delightful texture in the creamy sauce.

• Adjust the creaminess: Feel free to adjust the amount of cream based on your preference. If you’re looking for a lighter version, substituting part of the cream with vegetable stock can still yield a rich flavor while reducing calories.

• Experiment with cheese: While gouda is excellent, trying other cheeses like mozzarella or a dairy-free alternative can add unique flavors and textures to your dish.

• Make it ahead: Prepare everything in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes dinner time quicker and allows the flavors to meld beautifully!

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Presentation can truly elevate your dish from good to great. Here are some creative ideas for serving this creamy delight!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: Adding a few fresh basil leaves on top not only looks beautiful but also enhances the aromatic flavors of the pesto.

• Parmesan cheese shavings: A sprinkle of parmesan cheese adds an extra layer of richness and sophistication that complements the creamy goodness perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, making it an irresistible companion to your gnocchi.

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing mixed green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish while adding crunch and color.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes add warmth and help round out your meal with additional nutrients.

• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice provides a bright contrast to the creamy gnocchi, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be sure to impress anyone who shares this delicious meal with you! Enjoy every bite of your Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is not just a delightful meal but also an excellent choice for meal prep. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, allowing for quick and satisfying dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gnocchi to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream to help restore creaminess.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative and use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast instead of gouda.

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

If stored properly in an airtight container, this dish will last for about 3 days in the fridge.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of baby spinach?

Yes, fresh spinach can be used as a substitute. Just make sure to remove any tough stems and chop it into smaller pieces if necessary.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is truly a comforting dish that combines rich flavors with fresh ingredients. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving something delicious. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out!