Pesto Gnocchi Recipe
Get ready to fall head over heels for this Pesto Gnocchi Recipe—a weeknight wonder that’s bursting with Italian flavors and cooks in less time than it takes to set the table. Tender potato gnocchi are tossed in vibrant basil pesto, kissed with Parmesan, and finished with your favorite toppings for a dish that’s rich, comforting, and impossibly green. Whether you’re after a meatless main or a quick fix for satisfying cravings, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with a minimum of fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
When it comes to great food, simplicity is key! Each ingredient in this Pesto Gnocchi Recipe plays a starring role in building layers of taste and texture. Take a peek at these must-haves and their secret strengths.
- Potato Gnocchi (1 pound): These pillowy potato dumplings provide the chewy, soft base that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): A splash helps the gnocchi crisp ever so slightly, adding lovely golden edges and depth.
- Basil Pesto (1/2 cup): Store-bought or homemade, pesto brings bold herby notes and creamy, cheesy satisfaction.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup): Melts right in and adds that irresistible savory, nutty finish.
- Reserved Pasta Water (1/4 cup): The starchy water magically helps pesto cling to every bite.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Simple seasoning brightens all the flavors—go to taste!
- Optional Toppings: Toasted pine nuts, extra Parmesan, or fresh basil let you lavish your plate with flavor and flair.
How to Make Pesto Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Gnocchi
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a fast boil. Add the gnocchi and cook just until they rise to the surface—this usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Don’t wander off, as gnocchi cook in a flash and overcooking can make them mushy. Right before draining, scoop out 1/4 cup of the pasta water and save it; this starchy liquid will help create the silkiest sauce. Drain as soon as the little dumplings bob to the top.
Step 2: Sauté for a Golden Finish
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Tumble in the just-cooked gnocchi, arranging them in a single layer if possible. Let them sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, giving the pan a gentle shake now and then. The goal here? A light golden crust on each one, adding both flavor and texture to your Pesto Gnocchi Recipe.
Step 3: Add Pesto and Sauce It Up
Turn the heat down to low and spoon in the basil pesto along with the reserved pasta water. Gently toss (or stir) everything together until the gnocchi are glistening and every nook and cranny is coated with that gorgeous green sauce. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed—it’s all about balancing the flavors to your liking.
Step 4: Finish with Parmesan
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the top. The cheese will melt slightly on contact, giving the sauce an even creamier body and a mild, nutty essence that’s pure heaven.
Step 5: Plate and Top
Spoon the gnocchi into bowls or onto plates. Now for the grand finale: shower with toasted pine nuts for crunch, extra Parmesan for extra oomph, and a few fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. Dive in while it’s hot!
How to Serve Pesto Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing brings this dish to life quite like a sprinkle of creative garnishes. Think toasted pine nuts for crunch, chiffonade of basil for a fresh, peppery bite, and lashings of extra Parmesan for that iconic Italian finish. These little touches create a Pesto Gnocchi Recipe that’s as beautiful as it is delicious—don’t be afraid to personalize!
Side Dishes
For a complete meal, pair your Pesto Gnocchi with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette or serve alongside roasted cherry tomatoes for color and sweetness. A basket of crusty bread is also lovely, perfect for mopping up any extra bits of pesto sauce left behind.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your dinner into an event by plating the gnocchi individually in elegant shallow bowls sprinkled with edible flowers, or serve it family-style in a big rustic dish at the center of the table. For appetizers, spoon portions into small cups and offer mini forks—your Pesto Gnocchi Recipe will be the star of any gathering!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover pesto gnocchi in an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It will keep its wonderful flavor and texture for up to three days. Just make sure it’s stored quickly so it stays tasting fresh and vibrant.
Freezing
Want to enjoy this dish later? You can freeze cooked gnocchi tossed with pesto in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. For best results, store gnocchi and pesto separately, then combine them after thawing. Let everything thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the gnocchi gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen up the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, a microwave works in a pinch—just cover and heat for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pesto instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade basil pesto will make this Pesto Gnocchi Recipe even more flavorful and fresh. Just make sure your pesto isn’t too thick; thin with a little oil or pasta water if needed.
What’s the best way to toast pine nuts for garnish?
Place pine nuts in a dry nonstick skillet over medium-low heat, shaking often, until they’re golden and fragrant—usually about 2 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, as they can go from perfect to burnt in seconds!
Can I make gnocchi from scratch for this recipe?
If you’re up for it, homemade gnocchi truly makes your Pesto Gnocchi Recipe special! Just allow extra time for preparing and rolling the dough, but the payoff in pillowy-soft texture is absolutely worth it.
How do I add protein to this dish?
For a heartier meal, toss in shredded cooked chicken, sautéed shrimp, or canned white beans. These additions fold seamlessly into the sauce without overpowering the flavors of the classic Pesto Gnocchi Recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
With a few tweaks, yes! Swap out regular gnocchi and Parmesan for vegan alternatives, and be sure your pesto contains no cheese. The flavors will still shine bright!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving cozy comfort and punchy flavor, this Pesto Gnocchi Recipe is the answer every time. It’s a joy to toss together, beautiful to serve, and even better to eat—so go on, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a bowl of true Italian-inspired happiness!
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Pesto Gnocchi Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pesto Gnocchi recipe is a quick and flavorful dish that combines pillowy potato gnocchi with a vibrant basil pesto sauce. Topped with Parmesan cheese and optional extras like toasted pine nuts, it’s a satisfying Italian-inspired meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight.
Ingredients
Potato Gnocchi:
1 pound potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
Olive Oil:
1 tablespoon
Basil Pesto:
1/2 cup (store-bought or homemade)
Parmesan Cheese:
1/4 cup grated
Reserved Pasta Water:
1/4 cup
Salt and Black Pepper:
to taste
Optional Toppings:
toasted pine nuts, extra Parmesan, fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Boil the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package directions, usually 2–3 minutes, until they float to the surface. Reserve 1/4 cup of cooking water, then drain the gnocchi.
- Sauté the Gnocchi: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the cooked gnocchi and sauté for 2–3 minutes until golden. Reduce heat to low.
- Add Pesto: Stir in the pesto and reserved pasta water. Toss gently until gnocchi are coated in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with Parmesan, and serve immediately. Top with optional toppings as desired.
Notes
- For added protein, consider tossing in cooked chicken or white beans.
- Enhance flavor with sautéed cherry tomatoes or spinach.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
