Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that’s both comforting and quick to prepare, I have just the recipe for you: Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes! This dish has become a beloved favorite in my home, perfect for those busy weeknights when time is short but you still crave something delicious. The blend of fresh baby spinach, tangy marinated artichokes, and rich gouda cheese makes each bite feel like a warm hug. Plus, it’s ideal for family gatherings or even a cozy dinner with friends.

Imagine serving this creamy goodness right from the pan, enticing everyone with its vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma. It’s a meal that brings smiles to the table and can be whipped up in just 30 minutes. What more could you ask for?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
• Flexible Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal tastes.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare everything in advance and just bake before serving—perfect for meal prep!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pesto, spinach, and artichokes creates a wonderfully satisfying dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for this delicious meal! You’ll find everything you need right here.

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 things about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
• Swap the Cheese: If gouda isn’t your favorite, try mozzarella or even a dairy-free substitute to keep it creamy.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick that enhances the overall flavor.
• Use Homemade Pesto: If you’re feeling adventurous, whip up your own pesto using fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor!

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—this step is key as it builds the base flavor of our dish.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

Next, if your pan needs more oil, add a touch more before tossing in the gnocchi. Cook them while stirring occasionally until they turn lightly golden—about 3-5 minutes. This adds a lovely texture that complements the creamy sauce perfectly!

Step 3: Deglaze the Pan

Now it’s time to deglaze! Pour in either white grape juice or water. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the pan; they pack so much flavor. Then add in the cream and water (or vegetable stock), allowing everything to simmer gently for about 5 minutes until the gnocchi is cooked through.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

Stir in the basil pesto next along with baby spinach and drained marinated artichokes. You’ll notice how quickly the spinach wilts from the heat—this is exactly what we want! Finally, sprinkle shredded gouda on top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer your skillet into the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for that beautiful melted golden cheese topping!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Once it’s done baking, serve directly from the pan. Everyone will love digging into this creamy pesto gnocchi with spinach and artichokes!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

This creamy pesto gnocchi dish is not just quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it a delightful choice for any weeknight meal. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality pesto will enhance the flavors significantly, giving you that vibrant taste that makes this dish shine.
• Cook gnocchi properly: Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when cooking the gnocchi. This helps them brown nicely and prevents them from becoming mushy.
• Adjust creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, feel free to reduce the amount of cream or substitute part of it with vegetable stock. This keeps the flavor while lowering the calories.
• Experiment with cheese: While gouda adds a wonderful richness, feel free to mix it up! Try using mozzarella or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
• Add protein: For those looking to make this dish heartier, consider adding cooked chicken or chickpeas. They pair exceptionally well with the creamy sauce.

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Serving this creamy pesto gnocchi is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: Adding a few fresh basil leaves on top just before serving brings a burst of color and freshness.
• Parmesan cheese: A light sprinkle of grated Parmesan over the top adds an extra layer of flavor that beautifully complements the gouda.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper can enhance the dish’s taste and add a bit of spice.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce on your plate.
• Mixed green salad: A simple salad made with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balances out the richness of the gnocchi.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots provide not only nutrition but also a variety of textures alongside your creamy dish.
• Steamed asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice offers a bright contrast in both flavor and color, making for an elegant side.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes will be a hit at your dinner table. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes recipe is perfect for meal prep! It stores well, making it an excellent choice for busy days when you want something delicious without much fuss.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover gnocchi in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Enjoy the leftovers within 3-4 days for the best flavor.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, portion out individual servings.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, or use the microwave for quick thawing.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to maintain creaminess.
• Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that may help you in your cooking journey!

Can I use another type of cheese instead of gouda in Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes?

Absolutely! You can substitute gouda with mozzarella, fontina, or any cheese that melts well. Adjust according to your taste preferences!

How can I make Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes dairy-free?

To create a dairy-free version, simply replace cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Use a non-dairy cheese for topping as well.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes stores well in the fridge and can also be frozen for future meals.

What can I serve alongside this gnocchi?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or some garlic bread on the side. Enjoy it with a glass of sparkling water or herbal tea!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes! It’s not just a comforting dish; it’s also packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table. Happy cooking!