Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as comforting as a warm hug, let me introduce you to my Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes! This recipe has quickly become a staple in my kitchen, especially on those busy weeknights when I want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The creamy goodness of this dish paired with the vibrant flavors of fresh spinach and tangy artichokes makes it feel special enough for family gatherings too.

What I love most about this recipe is how easily it comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for those nights when you want to unwind without sacrificing flavor. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a fun gathering with friends, this creamy pesto gnocchi will surely impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a hassle-free dinner.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and delightful flavors, even picky eaters will enjoy every bite.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with nutritious spinach and artichokes, you can feel good about serving this meal.
• Versatile Dish: Great for any occasion—from casual weeknights to festive family dinners.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of gouda cheese and basil pesto creates a rich, satisfying experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes.

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add more veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Swap the cheese: If gouda isn’t available, try mozzarella or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter option.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or crushed garlic for an extra kick of flavor.
• Make it vegan: Use coconut cream instead of regular cream and choose plant-based gnocchi and cheese.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (356°F). This step ensures that your dish will be baked perfectly once we’re ready to finish it off!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a cast-iron skillet or stainless steel pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are soft, fragrant, and translucent—this brings out their natural sweetness. Stir in dried oregano and basil, letting them cook together for another minute.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Now it’s time for the star—gnocchi! Add more olive oil if needed and then toss in the gnocchi. Cook them while stirring occasionally until they turn lightly golden—this should take about 3-5 minutes. The slight crispiness adds lovely texture!

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

To deglaze the pan, pour in either white grape juice or water. Use your wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom; these bits add incredible flavor! Next, add cream along with water (or vegetable stock), allowing everything to simmer gently for about 5 minutes until the gnocchi is cooked through.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Stir in basil pesto alongside fresh spinach and drained artichokes. As you mix everything together, you’ll see the spinach wilt beautifully from the heat. Top off your delicious mixture with shredded gouda cheese before baking!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Transfer your skillet into the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown on top. This step gives your dish that irresistible gooeyness!

Step 7: Serve

Once it’s done baking, serve directly from the pan—how inviting does that sound? Enjoy your Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes warm!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Cooking can be a delightful journey, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your creamy pesto gnocchi to new heights!

• Use fresh ingredients: Opting for fresh basil pesto and high-quality gouda cheese will enhance the flavors of your dish, making it rich and satisfying.
• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Cooking the gnocchi until they are just tender will ensure they maintain their delightful texture and won’t become mushy in the creamy sauce.
• Adjust the consistency: If you find the sauce too thick, add a splash more of vegetable stock or water to reach your desired creaminess without compromising flavor.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, or a bit of lemon zest for brightness that complements the richness of the dish.
• Make it vegetarian-friendly: For a completely vegetarian meal, substitute gouda with a plant-based cheese that melts well, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious recipe.

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

When it comes to serving this creamy pesto gnocchi, presentation can make all the difference. Here are some ideas to make your dish not only taste great but look appealing too.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh basil: Sprinkling some freshly chopped basil on top adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Toasted pine nuts: A handful of toasted pine nuts adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall texture of your dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A crispy garlic bread serves as an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce on your plate.
• Mixed greens salad: A light mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the gnocchi while adding freshness to your meal.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers bring additional flavors and nutrients to your dinner table, complementing the main dish perfectly.
• Steamed asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds an elegant touch to your meal; its bright green color and slight crunch provide a beautiful contrast to the creamy pasta.

Enjoy creating this delightful dish, and don’t forget to share it with family and friends! Each bite is a reminder of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special.

Make Ahead and Storage

This creamy pesto gnocchi is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy the delightful flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover creamy pesto gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing

• To freeze, portion out the gnocchi into meal-sized servings and place them in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with the date and use within 2-3 months for best quality.
• For easier reheating, consider freezing individual portions.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen gnocchi in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through.
• You can add a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick while reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe!

Can I substitute ingredients in Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the gouda cheese for another cheese of your choice or even a dairy-free alternative. The marinated artichokes can also be replaced with sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor twist.

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 make sure to let it cool down before storing!

Can I use fresh spinach instead of baby spinach?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach instead of baby spinach! Just remember that fresh spinach tends to have a slightly stronger flavor, so adjust according to your taste preferences.

Is Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This recipe is great for meal prepping. You can make a big batch at once and store portions for quick lunches or dinners 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 a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for cozy evenings. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this recipe is bound to bring smiles around the table. Happy cooking!