Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

If you’re looking for a comforting, delicious meal that’s quick to whip up, you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is one of my all-time favorites. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of fresh spinach, tangy marinated artichokes, and creamy gouda makes every bite a delight!

Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or just treating yourself after a long day, this dish hits all the right notes. It’s simple enough for everyday dinners but fancy enough to impress guests if you’re entertaining. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this scrumptious meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a fabulous dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy texture and delightful flavors, making it a hit at any dining table.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prep the ingredients in advance for an easy weeknight meal that’s ready when you are.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out or add vegetables based on what you have on hand, making it flexible for your pantry.
• Comfort Food Extraordinaire: Rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying—this gnocchi dish will warm your heart and soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! This recipe uses ingredients that are easy to find and perfect for creating that creamy deliciousness we crave.

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 Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have or your personal tastes.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or roasted bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
• Change Up the Cheese: Try using mozzarella or a dairy-free cheese alternative if you’re looking for something different.
• Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes to give it a little kick if you enjoy some heat!
• Swap the Protein: For added heartiness, consider adding cooked chicken or chickpeas.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). This step is crucial because it ensures your dish will bake evenly and get that lovely golden top once we add the cheese.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a cast-iron skillet or stainless steel pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes. This process brings out their natural sweetness and builds a flavorful base for our sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

If needed, add a bit more olive oil before tossing in your gnocchi. Stir occasionally until they turn lightly golden—about 3-5 minutes. This adds depth to their flavor while also giving them a nice texture.

Step 4: Deglaze with Juice or Water

Pour in white grape juice or water, using a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any tasty browned bits stuck to the pan. This adds even more flavor to your dish! Now mix in cream and water (or vegetable stock), letting it simmer for about 5 minutes until the gnocchi is fully cooked.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Now it’s time to stir in the pesto, baby spinach, and marinated artichokes! The heat will wilt the spinach beautifully. Finally, sprinkle grated gouda on top before placing it in the oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until everything is bubbling hot and the cheese is melted with a lovely golden crust.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Serve your Creamy Pesto Gnocchi directly from the pan! It’s perfect for sharing with family or friends straight from the oven. Enjoy every creamy bite of this delightful dish!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Cooking should be a joyful experience, and these tips will help you elevate your creamy pesto gnocchi to perfection!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh baby spinach and quality marinated artichokes can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish. Fresh ingredients not only taste better but also provide more nutrients.

• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Cooking the gnocchi until they are just tender will ensure they maintain their delightful texture. Overcooking can lead to a mushy consistency, which isn’t as enjoyable.

• Experiment with cheese: While gouda adds a lovely creaminess, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for a different flavor profile. Every cheese brings its own unique taste and meltability to the dish.

• Customize the pesto: If you want to switch things up, consider making your own pesto using different herbs or nuts. This allows you to tailor the flavors to your liking, making each batch unique!

• Add extra veggies: Feel free to throw in some cherry tomatoes or zucchini for added color and nutrition. Extra vegetables not only boost health benefits but also add visual appeal to your dish.

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Presenting this creamy pesto gnocchi is all about highlighting its vibrant colors and rich textures! Here are some ideas to ensure your dish looks as delicious as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of fresh basil on top adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the pesto beautifully.
• Grated parmesan alternative: If you’re looking for a cheesy touch without dairy, consider using a plant-based parmesan for garnish—it’ll add an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A crusty loaf of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce. It’s crispy on the outside and soft inside—a comforting addition.
• Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast that balances out the richness of the gnocchi.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini add a colorful side that complements your main dish while providing additional nutrients.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus with a drizzle of olive oil makes for an elegant side that pairs wonderfully with the creamy flavors of the gnocchi.

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

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream to keep it creamy.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes without cheese?

Absolutely! You can omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. Nutritional yeast is also a great option for adding a cheesy flavor.

How long does it take to prepare Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes?

This dish is quick and can be made in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!

Can I use fresh spinach instead of baby spinach?

Yes! Fresh spinach works wonderfully. Just ensure it’s well washed and chopped before adding it to the dish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes as much as I do! It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavors that will warm your heart. Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is sure to delight. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience!