Description
Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two is a quick and delicious Italian-inspired dish featuring pillowy potato gnocchi tossed in a rich, herbaceous pesto cream sauce with a hint of garlic and Parmesan cheese. This easy stovetop recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for a cozy dinner for two. Optional baby spinach adds a fresh, healthy touch.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 (12 oz) package potato gnocchi
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potato gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, typically 2 to 3 minutes, until they float to the surface. Drain the gnocchi and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Add Pesto and Cheese: Stir in basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Toss Gnocchi in Sauce: Add the drained gnocchi to the skillet with the sauce and gently toss to coat evenly.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the baby spinach if using, cooking until just wilted to keep the greens vibrant and fresh.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Divide the gnocchi between two bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for an extra protein boost.
- Use homemade pesto for a fresher flavor, or store-bought for convenience.
- Be careful not to overcook gnocchi; they’re done when they float to the top of boiling water.
- Red pepper flakes add a nice spicy kick but are optional based on preference.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 52 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 13 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
