Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

If you’re looking for a delightful and comforting meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, you’ve found it! This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes has quickly become one of my go-to recipes. It’s a dish that’s not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to whip up on busy weeknights or when you want to impress friends at a casual gathering. The combination of fresh baby spinach, tangy marinated artichokes, and gooey gouda cheese creates a symphony of taste that everyone will love.

This recipe is wonderful for family dinners or even as a cozy meal for yourself after a long day. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen while you savor each creamy bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can have this delicious meal on the table.
• Family-friendly flavors: The creamy sauce and cheesy goodness make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile ingredients: You can easily swap out or add veggies based on what you have on hand.
• One-pan magic: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and relax afterward.
• Comfort food at its finest: This dish warms your heart and soul, making it perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this comforting dish. You may already have many of these in your pantry!

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 Creamy Sauce

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

For the Vegetables

• 125 g baby spinach
• 280 g jar marinated artichokes (drained)

For the Topping

• 4 tbsp basil pesto
• 200 g gouda or similar cheese (grated)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to customize your Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes:

• Add protein: Stir in some cooked chicken or chickpeas for an extra boost of protein.
• Change the greens: Try kale or arugula instead of spinach for a different flavor profile.
• Mix up the cheese: If gouda isn’t available, feel free to use mozzarella or cheddar—both melt beautifully!
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for a little heat if you like things spicy.

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 diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until they are soft and fragrant. Sautéing these aromatics brings out their natural sweetness, which sets the foundation for our creamy sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

If needed, drizzle in a bit more olive oil before adding the gnocchi to the pan. Cook while stirring occasionally until they turn lightly golden, about 3-5 minutes. This step enhances their texture and gives them that lovely golden color.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Deglaze the pan by adding white grape juice or water, scraping up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom. Then pour in cream along with water (or vegetable stock), letting it simmer for about 5 minutes until everything melds together beautifully. This is where all those flavors combine into something truly special!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Stir in the basil pesto, baby spinach, and drained marinated artichokes. The heat will wilt the spinach perfectly. Finally, sprinkle grated gouda on top—it’s what makes this dish so wonderfully indulgent.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Transfer your skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown on top. The bubbling cheese creates an irresistible crust that pulls everything together.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve directly from the pan for that cozy home-cooked feel. Enjoy every spoonful of your creamy pesto gnocchi—it’s sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Making creamy pesto gnocchi can be a breeze, especially with these handy tips to elevate your cooking experience!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality pesto make all the difference in flavor. They add a vibrant taste that dried herbs simply can’t match.

• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Keep an eye on your gnocchi while cooking. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, so aim for that perfect al dente bite for a delightful chewiness.

• Experiment with cheeses: While gouda is a fantastic choice, feel free to mix it up! Try mozzarella or even a sprinkle of parmesan for added depth and flavor.

• Mix in some veggies: For an extra nutrient boost, consider adding other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes or zucchini. They not only enhance nutrition but also bring additional color to your dish.

• Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of cream or substitute part of it with vegetable broth. This way, you can enjoy a creamy texture without feeling too heavy.

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

This dish is not just delicious but also visually appealing! Presenting it well can make it feel even more special. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful meal:

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few whole leaves on top add a pop of color and enhance the basil flavor.
• Toasted pine nuts: These add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Cracked black pepper: A light sprinkle adds a bite and enhances all the flavors in the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate. It’s a classic side that never disappoints!

• Mixed green salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette balances out the richness of the gnocchi.

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like asparagus or bell peppers add color and are great for adding more nutrients alongside your meal.

• Steamed broccoli: This vibrant green veggie complements the creamy gnocchi perfectly while packing in some healthy fiber!

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create an unforgettable dining experience around your creamy pesto gnocchi! Enjoy every comforting bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is not only a delightful dish to enjoy fresh but also fantastic for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance and have delicious, comforting meals ready for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the dish cool entirely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen gnocchi overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream to keep it moist.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi saves time and is perfect for whipping up this quick meal. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package.

What can I substitute for gouda cheese in Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes?

You can use other melting cheeses like mozzarella or fontina if gouda isn’t available. Both will provide a creamy texture and delicious flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes! This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is perfect for vegetarians as it contains no meat or animal-derived products.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes as I do! It’s a heartwarming dish that combines rich flavors with vibrant vegetables, making it special for any dinner table. Enjoy creating this delightful meal, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you tried. Happy cooking!