Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then look no further than this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes! This recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it combines creamy goodness with fresh, vibrant flavors. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or even impressing friends on a casual gathering. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll want to share it with everyone!

Not only is this dish incredibly delicious, but it’s also a fantastic way to sneak some greens into your meal. The combination of baby spinach and tangy marinated artichokes brings a fresh twist to the rich, creamy base.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy sauce and cheesy goodness make it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Versatile: You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins.
• Make Ahead: Prep the ingredients earlier in the day for an even quicker dinner time!
• Comfort Food at Its Best: This dish is satisfying, hearty, and oh-so-delicious!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful dish! You might already have some of these in your pantry.

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 parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
• Swap the Cheese: If gouda isn’t your thing, try mozzarella or a dairy-free alternative.
• Change Up the Greens: Use kale or arugula instead of spinach for a different taste and texture.
• Boost the Protein: Add cooked chicken or chickpeas to make it more filling.

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 up the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become soft and fragrant—this step is key because caramelizing them brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

If needed, drizzle in a bit more olive oil before adding the gnocchi. Stir occasionally as they cook until they turn lightly golden—about 3-5 minutes. This adds texture and enhances their flavor for that perfect bite.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pan

Next, pour in the white grape juice (or water) to deglaze the pan. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape any browned bits off the bottom; these add great flavor! Then, stir in the cream and water (or stock), letting it simmer gently for about 5 minutes until everything melds together beautifully.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Stir in the basil pesto, baby spinach, and marinated artichokes. As you mix them in, you’ll see how quickly the spinach wilts from the heat—this is exactly what we want! Finally, sprinkle shredded gouda on top.

Step 5: Bake It to Perfection

Transfer your skillet directly into the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Once done baking, serve this delicious dish directly from the pan—no need for extra dishes! Everyone will love digging into this comforting bowl of creamy pesto gnocchi.

Enjoy every cheesy bite of your Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes; it’s sure to become a new favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Creating the perfect creamy pesto gnocchi is all about the little details! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out wonderfully every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh baby spinach and high-quality marinated artichokes enhance the flavors significantly, giving your dish a vibrant taste that frozen or canned options may lack.

• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Gnocchi should be light and fluffy. Cook them just until they float in the boiling water before sautéing, which ensures they have a tender texture that complements the creaminess of the sauce.

• Customize your cheese: While gouda adds a lovely richness, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like fontina or mozzarella for different flavor profiles. Each cheese brings its unique character to the dish.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste as you go, and don’t hesitate to add more herbs, salt, or pepper to suit your preferences. This personal touch makes all the difference.

• Make it a one-pan meal: If you’re short on time or dishes, use one pan for everything. Sauté your veggies, cook the gnocchi, and finish it all off in the same skillet for easy cleanup!

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Presenting your creamy pesto gnocchi beautifully can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas that will make your dish even more appealing!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A handful of torn basil leaves adds a burst of freshness and color on top of your dish.

• Parmesan shavings: Lightly sprinkle some fresh parmesan shavings over the top just before serving for an extra layer of flavor and sophistication.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs perfectly with this creamy dish, providing a crunchy contrast that’s irresistible for dipping into any leftover sauce.

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with greens such as arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the gnocchi while adding freshness.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus not only add color but also complement the flavors of the creamy pesto nicely.

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli gives a nutritious boost to your meal while its bright green color enhances visual appeal on the plate.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re well on your way to enjoying a delightful bowl of creamy pesto gnocchi with spinach and artichokes! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious dish.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down completely.
• Portion the gnocchi into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream to moisten.
• Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use other types of cheese in Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes?

Absolutely! While gouda adds a wonderful flavor, you can substitute with mozzarella, cheddar, or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for alternatives.

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, this dish will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Just be sure to reheat it thoroughly before enjoying!

Can I add more vegetables to the creamy pesto gnocchi?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Yes! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or animal-derived gelatin.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes! It’s not just a quick meal; it’s also a warm hug on a plate that brings comfort after a long day. I’d love to hear how yours turns out—enjoy every creamy bite!