Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that will make your taste buds dance, you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this dish has quickly become one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. It’s quick to whip up—ready in just 30 minutes—and brings together the freshness of baby spinach, the delightful tang of marinated artichokes, and the smooth richness of gouda cheese. Trust me, this will be a new favorite at your dinner table!

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this recipe never fails to impress. Plus, who doesn’t love gnocchi? It’s like little pillows of joy on your plate!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes! Perfect for those hectic weeknights when time is tight.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy sauce and delicious flavors make this a hit with both kids and adults. Everyone will be asking for seconds!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and bake it just before serving. Ideal for meal prep!
• Flavor Explosion: With fresh spinach and zesty artichokes mingling with creamy pesto, every bite is packed with flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes requires simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s gather everything we need!

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 switch things up based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
• Swap the Cheese: If gouda isn’t your favorite, try mozzarella or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter option.
• Change Up the Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can give a lovely twist to the classic flavors.
• Make it Vegan: Use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives to keep it vegan while maintaining that creamy goodness.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). This step ensures that when your creamy gnocchi hits the oven later, it will get perfectly golden and bubbly.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In a cast-iron skillet or stainless steel pan, add olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until they are soft, fragrant, and translucent. This step is crucial as sautéing brings out their natural sweetness, adding depth to our sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

If needed, add a little more oil to the pan before throwing in the gnocchi. Cook them until they are lightly golden brown—about 3-5 minutes will do! This gives them a nice texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

Pour in your white grape juice or water to deglaze the pan. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck at the bottom. These add incredible flavor! Then pour in cream and water (or vegetable stock), allowing everything to simmer for about 5 minutes until the gnocchi cooks through.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

Now it’s time for magic! Stir in pesto, baby spinach, and drained artichokes. As they mingle together in that warm sauce, you’ll see the spinach wilt beautifully from the heat. Finally, top everything off with shredded gouda cheese before baking.

Step 6: Bake It Up

Transfer your skillet into the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown on top. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will surely make everyone gather around!

Step 7: Serve Directly From The Pan

Once it’s ready, serve straight from the pan! It’s rustic and inviting—just like how dinner should feel.

Enjoy this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Making this creamy pesto gnocchi dish is a delightful experience, and a few handy tips can elevate it even further!

• Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh spinach and good quality pesto. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to the overall texture of the dish.
• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Cook the gnocchi just until they float in boiling water. Overcooking can make them mushy, while perfectly cooked gnocchi will provide a lovely bite that complements the creamy sauce.
• Adjust creaminess to your taste: If you prefer a lighter dish, feel free to reduce the amount of cream and replace it with more vegetable stock or water. This keeps the flavors bright without sacrificing too much richness.
• Experiment with cheese: While gouda adds a wonderful creaminess, feel free to substitute it with mozzarella or even a vegan cheese if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Each cheese brings its own unique flavor profile!
• Make it ahead of time: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven before serving, making it perfect for meal prep!

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Serving this creamy pesto gnocchi is all about presentation! The vibrant colors from the spinach and artichokes make for an inviting dish that will impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of torn fresh basil leaves adds a burst of color and enhances the herbaceous notes in the dish.
• Parmesan cheese shavings: While we’re avoiding pork products, adding some vegan parmesan shavings can provide a nutty finish that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a favorite! Its buttery texture pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce, perfect for scooping up any leftovers.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness to your meal while balancing out the richness of the gnocchi.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus bring additional flavor and nutrients to your plate, making for a well-rounded dinner.
• Steamed Broccoli: Quick to prepare, steamed broccoli adds a crunchy texture and vibrant green color that complements the dish without overwhelming it.

Enjoy your creamy pesto gnocchi with spinach and artichokes! This wholesome meal is not just delicious but also visually appealing—perfect for any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal throughout the week. Here’s how you can store and reheat it to maintain its wonderful flavors.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool completely.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen gnocchi in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• For stovetop reheating, add a splash of water or cream to a skillet over low heat, stirring until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a covered bowl at medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

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

Yes! Substitute the cream with coconut cream or your favorite plant-based cream alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of gouda for a cheesy flavor.

How long does Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

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

This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or some garlic bread. You could also serve it alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I use fresh artichokes instead of marinated ones?

Absolutely! If using fresh artichokes, ensure they are cooked and tender before adding them to your gnocchi for best results.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes as much as I do! It’s not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor and comfort that warms the heart. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy dinner gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking!