Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is one of my all-time favorites, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet quick to whip up. The delightful combination of tender gnocchi, fresh baby spinach, and tangy marinated artichokes comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home.

What truly makes this recipe special is the creamy pesto sauce that ties everything together. With rich gouda cheese melting on top, every bite is a burst of flavor. Trust me; this dish will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the creamy goodness and fun texture of gnocchi.
• Make Ahead: Pre-cook the gnocchi and veggies, and store them for an easy reheat on busy nights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of pesto, spinach, and artichokes creates a deliciously vibrant meal.
• Comfort Food Delight: This recipe is comfort food at its best—creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious dish. You’ll find everything you need right here!

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 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 Topping

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or zucchini for extra freshness.
• Swap the Cheese: Try mozzarella or a dairy-free cheese substitute if you’re looking for alternatives.
• Change Up the Greens: Kale or Swiss chard can replace spinach if you want something heartier.
• Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken or chickpeas to boost the protein content.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Step 1: Prep Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). This step ensures that your dish gets all bubbly and golden when it’s time to bake.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a cast-iron skillet or stainless steel pan over medium heat, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in olive oil until they’re soft and fragrant. This step is key as it brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your sauce. After about 5 minutes, sprinkle in the dried oregano and basil; let them cook for another minute or two so their flavors can bloom.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

If needed, add a bit more oil before tossing in the gnocchi. Cook them while stirring occasionally until they turn lightly golden—this should take about 3-5 minutes. Browning adds a lovely flavor that complements our creamy sauce.

Step 4: Create Your Sauce

Next, deglaze the pan with white grape juice or water by scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This extra flavor is magic! Add the cream and either water or vegetable stock to create a lush sauce. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes until everything melds beautifully.

Step 5: Combine It All!

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Stir in that vibrant basil pesto along with your fresh spinach and drained artichokes. As you do this, watch as the spinach wilts from the heat—a beautiful sight! Finally, top everything with shredded gouda cheese before popping it into the oven.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake for about 15-20 minutes until that cheese is melted and golden brown on top. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting at the table!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Scoop out generous portions directly from the pan—there’s no need for fancy plating here! Enjoy every creamy bite with family and friends; I promise they’ll be asking for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Cooking can be a breeze, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve. Here are some pro tips to ensure your creamy pesto gnocchi turns out absolutely delightful!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Using fresh spinach and high-quality marinated artichokes will enhance the flavors of your dish, making every bite vibrant and delicious.

• Don’t skip the deglazing: This step is essential for capturing all the delicious browned bits stuck to the pan, which adds depth to your sauce and elevates the overall flavor.

• Monitor cooking time: Gnocchi cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it! Overcooking can make it soggy; aim for a light golden color during sautéing for the best texture.

• Experiment with cheese: While gouda is fantastic, feel free to try other cheeses like mozzarella or a nutty parmesan. Each cheese brings its own unique flavor profile to the dish.

• Add extra greens: For an added nutritional boost, consider tossing in other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard along with the spinach. They will wilt nicely and add more color and nutrients!

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Serving your creamy pesto gnocchi is just as fun as making it! You can elevate this comforting dish by adding some thoughtful touches that delight both the eyes and palate.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A handful of torn fresh basil leaves adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the pesto beautifully.
• Cracked black pepper: A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper offers a subtle kick that balances the creaminess of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce on your plate. Plus, who doesn’t love garlic bread?

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gnocchi. Include seasonal veggies for added crunch!

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus offer not only great flavor but also gorgeous colors that brighten up your meal.

• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet effective, steamed broccoli adds a nutritious side that pairs well with creamy sauces while bringing a lovely green element to your table.

With these serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your delicious and visually appealing meal. Enjoy every delightful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This creamy pesto gnocchi with spinach and artichokes is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and store it for later, ensuring you have a delicious dinner ready to go when you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best to consume the leftovers within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Make sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation.

Freezing

• To freeze, place cooled portions of the gnocchi mixture into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label the containers with the date and contents for easy identification later.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat the gnocchi in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable stock to keep it moist.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Ensure it’s heated evenly before serving!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this creamy pesto gnocchi recipe.

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

Yes! You can substitute the cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or a cashew cream for a lighter version.

What should I serve with Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes?

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. A light vinaigrette complements the richness of the gnocchi perfectly.

How do I know when the gnocchi is done cooking?

The gnocchi is ready when it floats to the surface of the simmering liquid. After that, allow it to cook for an additional few minutes to absorb flavors.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies such as bell peppers or zucchini to customize your creamy pesto gnocchi dish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this creamy pesto gnocchi with spinach and artichokes! It’s special not only because it’s quick and easy but also packed with flavor. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or enjoying it as a comforting solo meal, it’s sure to delight. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience!