Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting dish that’s quick to whip up after a long day, then you’re in for a treat with this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes! This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it combines the rich flavors of creamy gouda cheese and vibrant pesto with the freshness of baby spinach and tangy marinated artichokes. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet night at home or hosting a gathering with friends, this dish will surely impress everyone at the table.

What I love most about this creamy pesto gnocchi is how effortlessly it comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, yet indulgent enough for special occasions, it’s a delightful way to bring a taste of Italy right into your kitchen. Let me share why you’ll adore this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and delicious flavors.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance for meal prep or enjoy leftovers the next day!
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with spinach and artichokes, it’s both delicious and nutritious.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of gouda cheese and basil pesto creates an irresistible creamy sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need any fancy ingredients for this recipe—just simple, wholesome items that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need to create your own creamy pesto gnocchi masterpiece:

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

The beauty of this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes lies in its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and customize the dish to suit your tastes. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the greens: Try using kale or arugula instead of spinach for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: If gouda isn’t your favorite, feel free to use mozzarella or cheddar.
• Make it vegan: Substitute cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and use vegan cheese.

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 olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become soft, fragrant, and translucent—this step is crucial as it brings out their natural sweetness, setting a delicious base for your sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

Once your aromatics are ready, add more oil if needed before tossing in the gnocchi. Stir occasionally until they turn lightly golden—this adds texture and flavor that elevates the dish. You’ll only need about 3-5 minutes for this step!

Step 3: Deglaze the Pan

Next, it’s time to deglaze! Pour in white grape juice or water while using a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any tasty browned bits stuck to the pan. This not only adds depth of flavor but also makes cleaning easier later on.

Step 4: Create Your Creamy Sauce

After deglazing, pour in the cream and additional water (or vegetable stock). Allow everything to simmer gently for about 5 minutes until the gnocchi is cooked through. This step is essential as it melds all those lovely flavors together into a creamy sauce.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to stir in the basil pesto, baby spinach, and marinated artichokes. The heat from the mixture will wilt down the spinach beautifully. Be sure everything is well combined; you want each bite packed with flavor!

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Finally, top your dish with shredded gouda cheese before transferring it to the oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until that cheese is melted and golden brown on top. Serve directly from the pan—it’s perfectly rustic!

Now you have a delightful dish that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare! Enjoy every bite of this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Cooking should be a joyful experience, and these tips will help you create a perfect dish every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality gouda can transform this dish. They enhance the flavors and give your meal that extra touch of brightness.

• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Aim for al dente gnocchi for a delightful texture. Overcooking can make them mushy, which detracts from the overall experience of the dish.

• Experiment with different cheeses: While gouda is delicious, try using mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for varied flavors and textures. This allows you to customize the dish to your taste.

• Customize your veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Mixing in seasonal produce not only boosts nutrition but also adds color to your plate.

• Make it ahead: If you’re short on time during the week, prepare the gnocchi mixture ahead of time. Store it in the fridge, then simply bake when you’re ready to eat!

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Presenting a beautiful dish is all about those little details! Here are some ideas to make your creamy pesto gnocchi shine on the dinner table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil on top adds a pop of color and an aromatic touch that complements the pesto.
• Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper enhances flavor and provides a bit of spice without overwhelming the dish.
• Parmesan cheese shavings: If you’re looking for an extra hit of umami, delicate shavings of Parmesan can elevate the presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up any leftover creamy sauce, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with soft gnocchi.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers freshness and balances out the richness of the dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like asparagus or carrots provide great flavor and nutrition while adding vibrant colors to your meal.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli not only adds a healthy element but also pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of the gnocchi.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This creamy pesto gnocchi recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip it up in advance 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.
• Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen it up if needed.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze this dish, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• It’s best to freeze without the cheese topping to maintain its texture.
• Use within 2-3 months for optimal flavor and quality.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Heat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can bake it in the oven at 180°C (356°F) until hot, adding cheese towards the end if desired.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe!

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

Yes! Substitute gouda cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative and use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of dairy cream for a delicious vegan version.

How can I enhance my Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes?

Feel free to add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes will also add a lovely kick!

Can I use homemade pesto in this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade pesto will elevate your Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes even more. Just make sure it’s your favorite blend of herbs and nuts for that personal touch.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this creamy pesto gnocchi with spinach and artichokes as much as I do! It’s such a comforting dish that’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet special enough for gatherings. Remember, cooking is all about enjoying the process, so have fun with it! Can’t wait for you to give it a try—happy cooking!