Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that comes together in a snap, then look no further than my Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes! This recipe is a favorite of mine because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up. With the vibrant flavors of fresh spinach, tangy marinated artichokes, and rich gouda cheese, this dish is sure to become a go-to for busy weeknights or even family gatherings.

Imagine sitting down to a warm bowl of creamy goodness, knowing that you’ve spent just 30 minutes creating something extraordinary. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this creamy pesto gnocchi is perfect for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with flavor and texture, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance and bake it just before serving, perfect for meal prep.
• Vegetarian Delight: Full of wholesome ingredients, this dish is great for anyone looking to enjoy a meatless meal without sacrificing taste.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: The creamy sauce and cheesy topping make this gnocchi incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful dish! You’ll find everything you need right in your kitchen or local grocery store.

For the Gnocchi

• 500 g gnocchi
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 yellow onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp dried basil

For the Sauce

• 150 ml white grape juice (or water)
• 250 ml cream
• 250 ml water (or vegetable stock)

For the Filling

• 125 g baby spinach
• 280 g jar marinated artichokes (drained)
• 4 tbsp basil pesto

For the Topping

• 200 g gouda or similar cheese (grated)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily swap out ingredients or add your favorites to create your own unique version. Here are some ideas:

• Add more veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
• Change the cheese: Try using mozzarella or a dairy-free cheese alternative if you prefer.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or sauté some chili peppers along with the onions for a kick of heat.
• Swap the greens: If you don’t have spinach on hand, kale or arugula would work wonderfully too!

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 olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, then sauté until they become soft and fragrant. This step is crucial because sautéing brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your dish.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

Once your onions are translucent, it’s time to cook the gnocchi! If needed, drizzle in more olive oil before adding them to the pan. Stir occasionally until they’re lightly golden—about 3-5 minutes. This adds flavor and gives them a nice texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Step 3: Create Your Sauce

Next, deglaze the pan with white grape juice or water. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any delicious bits stuck to the bottom; these add flavor! Afterward, pour in the cream and either water or vegetable stock. Let everything simmer for about 5 minutes until the gnocchi is perfectly cooked.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

Stir in your basil pesto, baby spinach, and marinated artichokes. As you mix them in, you’ll see the spinach wilt from the heat—this is when all those flavors meld together beautifully! Top it off with grated gouda cheese before transferring it into the oven.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Now comes the magic part! Bake your dish for about 15-20 minutes until that cheese is melted and golden brown on top. The anticipation will be worth it as you pull out that bubbling tray of creamy goodness!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Finally, serve directly from the pan! Gather around your table with family or friends and enjoy every bite of this comforting Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes. It’s perfect for sharing—or savoring all on your own!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Creating the perfect creamy pesto gnocchi is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll be sure to impress!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh baby spinach and high-quality marinated artichokes can make a noticeable difference in flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your dish.
• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Keep an eye on the gnocchi while cooking. They should be tender but still have a slight bite (al dente) to maintain their shape and texture.
• Experiment with cheeses: While gouda adds a wonderful creaminess, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or parmesan for added depth of flavor.
• Customize your pesto: If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own pesto! Fresh basil, nuts, and olive oil blended together create a vibrant sauce that’s perfect for this dish.
• Adjust creaminess to taste: If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of cream or add more vegetable stock to balance flavors without sacrificing richness.

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Presenting your creamy pesto gnocchi in an appealing way can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas for serving this delicious dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil on top not only adds a touch of color but also boosts the herbaceous flavor of the dish.
• Parmesan shavings: For an extra layer of richness, add shavings of parmesan cheese just before serving.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Serve warm garlic bread alongside your gnocchi for a hearty complement. The crispy texture pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Mixed greens salad: A light salad with mixed greens tossed in a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gnocchi.
• Roasted vegetables: Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes bring additional flavors and textures that round out the meal.
• Steamed asparagus: This bright green veggie adds both color and nutrients. Its slight crunch provides a nice balance to the softness of the gnocchi.

Enjoy your creamy pesto gnocchi with spinach and artichokes as a comforting meal that is quick enough for weeknight dinners yet fancy enough for entertaining!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is not only a delight to prepare but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• For best results, consider freezing in individual portions.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
• Alternatively, reheat in a microwave-safe dish covered with a lid or microwave-safe wrap until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

How do I make Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly! Just ensure all ingredients, especially any pre-packaged items like gnocchi and pesto, do not contain animal-derived products.

Can I customize the Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes?

Absolutely! You can add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You could also substitute different cheeses based on your preference!

What can I use instead of cream in my Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using coconut cream or cashew cream as an alternative. Both will still provide that creamy texture!

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

This delicious dish can be ready in just about 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes! It’s a delightful blend of flavors that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Remember, cooking is all about sharing love through food, so feel free to make it your own. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!