Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and quick to whip up, then you’ll adore this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes. This recipe has become a beloved staple in my kitchen. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend cooking. The combination of fresh spinach, tangy marinated artichokes, and rich gouda cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will make everyone at the table smile.

This dish is not just for busy nights; it’s also great for family gatherings or even casual dinner parties. Trust me, once you serve this creamy delight, your friends and family will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can have a delightful meal on the table.
• Flavorful & Satisfying: The blend of pesto, spinach, and artichokes creates an irresistible richness.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this comforting dish; it’s hard to resist!
• Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand or swap out ingredients to suit your taste.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to create this creamy goodness! You won’t need anything fancy—just some pantry staples and a few fresh items to make this lovely dish shine.

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 Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up according to your tastes or what you have available in your pantry.

• Add Proteins: Toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein.
• Go Green: Substitute the spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different twist.
• Change Up the Cheese: Try using mozzarella or cheddar instead of gouda for varying flavors.
• Make It Lighter: For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of cream.

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. Add in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they are soft, fragrant, and translucent—about 5 minutes. This step is essential as it brings out their natural sweetness which forms the base of our dish.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

Once your aromatics are ready, add more oil if needed, 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 will give extra texture to our creamy dish.

Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer

Now it’s time to deglaze! Pour in the white grape juice or water while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—these add flavor! Next, stir in the cream and water (or vegetable stock). Let everything simmer for about 5 minutes until the gnocchi is cooked through.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

Stir in your basil pesto along with the baby spinach and drained marinated artichokes. The heat will wilt the spinach perfectly! Finally, sprinkle grated gouda on top of everything before popping it into the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes until that cheese is melted and beautifully golden.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Once out of the oven, serve directly from the pan. This way, everyone can enjoy it hot and melty! Pair it with a simple salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.

Enjoy every bite of this creamy goodness with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Creating a delicious creamy pesto gnocchi dish can be a breeze with a few handy tips! Here are some pointers to ensure your meal turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh baby spinach and high-quality pesto for an explosion of flavor. Fresh ingredients elevate the taste and enhance the overall experience of the dish.

• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Pay close attention to cooking times; overcooked gnocchi can become mushy. Perfectly cooked gnocchi will have a delightful texture that complements the creaminess of the sauce.

• Customize your cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or even a dairy-free alternative if you prefer. This allows you to tailor the richness and flavor profile to your liking.

• Add extra veggies: Consider incorporating other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for added color and nutrition. Boosting your dish with more veggies makes it not only more appealing but also healthier!

• Make it ahead: Prepare this dish in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes weeknight dinners even easier, allowing flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

When it comes to presenting your creamy pesto gnocchi, a little thought goes a long way. Here are some ideas to make your dish visually appealing and satisfying.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh basil: Sprinkling fresh basil on top adds a vibrant touch, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
• Grated parmesan (or dairy-free alternative): A sprinkle of parmesan provides an extra layer of richness, creating an irresistible finish.
• Toasted pine nuts: Adding toasted pine nuts not only elevates the visual appeal but also introduces a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce from your plate!
• Mixed greens salad: A light salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gnocchi. Try adding cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers pair wonderfully, adding depth to your meal while keeping it colorful.
• Steamed asparagus: Tender asparagus spears provide an elegant touch and their earthy flavor complements the creamy pasta nicely.

By following these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create not just an easy dinner but also an unforgettable dining experience! Enjoy your creamy pesto gnocchi with spinach and artichokes!

Make Ahead and Storage

This creamy pesto gnocchi is not just delicious; it’s also fantastic for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover gnocchi in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dish separate from any additional toppings to maintain texture.

Freezing

• Allow the gnocchi to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer portions into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Heat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen it up.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes.

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi is a convenient option that works well in this creamy pesto gnocchi dish. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for best results.

What can I substitute for gouda cheese?

If gouda isn’t available, try other melting cheeses like mozzarella or fontina. They will still create that delightful creamy texture in your creamy pesto gnocchi with spinach and artichokes!

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even sun-dried tomatoes. This will enhance the flavor and nutrition of your creamy pesto gnocchi with spinach and artichokes.

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 perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something special without too much fuss. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients; cooking should always be fun! Happy cooking!