Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

If you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort and joy into your kitchen, then look no further than this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes! This recipe is a personal favorite of mine because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly quick to prepare—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of fresh spinach, tangy marinated artichokes, and rich gouda cheese creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an easy gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This creamy pesto gnocchi can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: With its cheesy goodness and delightful flavors, even picky eaters will be asking for seconds.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup makes for more time enjoying your meal and the company around you.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in other veggies or cheeses based on what you have at home.
• Satisfying Comfort Food: Rich, creamy, and full of flavor, this dish truly warms the heart and soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to whip up this delightful dish. You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store!

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Add Protein: Toss in cooked chicken or chickpeas for an added protein boost.
• Swap the Greens: If spinach isn’t your favorite, try kale or arugula instead!
• Cheese Choice: Use mozzarella or parmesan instead of gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute cream with coconut milk and use a vegan cheese alternative for a plant-based version.

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 the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become soft and fragrant—this step adds depth of flavor to your dish by enhancing the natural sweetness of the onions.

Step 2: 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 usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Getting that lovely color on the gnocchi gives them extra texture and flavor that shines through in every bite!

Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer

Now it’s time to deglaze the pan! Pour in the white grape juice or water while scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Then add cream along with either water or vegetable stock. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes until everything melds together beautifully and the gnocchi are perfectly tender.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

Stir in the basil pesto, baby spinach, and marinated artichokes. Watch as the spinach wilts from the heat—this is where things start to come together! Finally, sprinkle shredded gouda over top for that irresistible cheesy finish.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Transfer your skillet to the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown. This step gives everything a cozy baked touch that makes it even more comforting.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Once baked to perfection, serve directly from the pan! Enjoy every creamy bite of this delightful Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes with those you love most.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

This recipe is already simple and delicious, but a few tips can take your creamy pesto gnocchi to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh baby spinach and quality marinated artichokes enhance the flavor of your dish, giving it that vibrant taste you crave.
• Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, feel free to reduce the amount of cream or substitute half with vegetable stock. This way, you can enjoy a slightly healthier version without losing flavor.
• Choose the right cheese: Gouda adds a rich taste, but experimenting with other cheeses like mozzarella or fontina can give you different textures and flavors. Try what you have on hand!
• Don’t rush the sautéing: Taking your time to properly cook the onion and garlic will deepen their flavors, making your gnocchi even more delightful.
• Serve immediately: For the best texture and taste, serve this dish right out of the oven while it’s hot and gooey. It’s perfect for impressing family or friends!

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Serving your creamy pesto gnocchi beautifully can elevate your dinner experience! Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh basil: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil adds a pop of color and a burst of herbal freshness that complements the pesto perfectly.
• Grated Parmesan alternative: For an extra layer of flavor, use a plant-based grated cheese or nutritional yeast as a topping. It brings an umami punch without dairy.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is an ideal companion for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce. It’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser!
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the gnocchi while adding freshness to your meal.
• Roasted vegetables: Oven-roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus provide a colorful side that’s packed with nutrients. The slight char enhances their natural sweetness.
• Steamed broccoli: Adding steamed broccoli not only complements the dish visually but also boosts its nutritional value. Plus, its crunch contrasts beautifully with creamy textures.

Enjoy creating this delightful meal—your dinner table will thank you!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Transfer any leftover gnocchi to an airtight container.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the dish into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Be sure to leave some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream to keep it moist.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this recipe, here are some frequently asked questions!

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

Absolutely! You can substitute the cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. For cheese, use a dairy-free cheese option.

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

This dish stands well on its own, but you can pair it with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

How do I store Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of baby spinach?

Yes! Fresh spinach will work perfectly; just be sure to sauté it until wilted before mixing it into your gnocchi.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes! It’s a comforting dish that brings together vibrant flavors and creamy textures while being incredibly easy to prepare. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. Happy cooking!