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Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach is a dish that beautifully marries texture and flavor, making it a favorite among pasta lovers and home cooks alike. The dish is characterized by its luscious creamy sauce, which envelops the gnocchi, creating a comforting and indulgent meal. With the vibrant notes of fresh basil, the earthiness of spinach, and the rich creaminess, each bite offers a delightful balance that is both satisfying and nourishing.

Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach

Discover the ultimate comfort food with Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach, a perfect blend of rich flavors and textures. This dish features tender gnocchi coated in a luscious cream sauce infused with fresh basil pesto and the nutritious goodness of spinach. Ideal for any occasion, it’s simple to customize with seasonal veggies or proteins. Experience a delightful eating adventure that’s easy enough for weeknights yet impressive for dinner parties. Taste the magic today!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)

2 cups fresh baby spinach

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Gnocchi: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous amount of salt, and bring it to a rapid boil. Carefully add the gnocchi, cooking them according to the package instructions, typically around 2-3 minutes, or until they begin to float. Once cooked, drain the gnocchi and set them aside.

    Sauté the Spinach: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 30 seconds, just until fragrant (be careful not to let it burn). Incorporate the fresh baby spinach into the skillet, stirring continuously until it wilts down, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

      Prepare the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Gently stir in the basil pesto, ensuring it is well combined with the cream. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.

        Combine Ingredients: Gently introduce the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, using a spatula to toss them in the creamy pesto sauce until fully coated. Fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and, if desired, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes, heating everything through.

          Finish the Dish: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. The sauce should become luxuriously creamy and flavorful.

            Serve and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the creamy pesto gnocchi in stylish bowls, garnished with fresh basil leaves and an optional additional sprinkle of Parmesan for an appealing finish.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 servings