Looking for a delicious and easy meal? Creamy Spinach Ricotta Gnocchi is rich and full of flavor! This dish combines soft potato gnocchi, fresh spinach, and creamy ricotta for a comforting treat you can whip up in no time. Whether you’re feeding a family or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s get cooking and create something special together!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Creamy: This dish combines the warmth of potato gnocchi with a rich, creamy sauce, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion.
- Nutritious Spinach: Fresh spinach not only adds a vibrant color to the dish but also packs in nutrients, making this meal a healthy choice.
- Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cooking time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal in a hurry.
- Versatile Ingredients: The ingredients used in this recipe are simple and versatile, allowing for easy substitutions based on what you have on hand.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 500g potato gnocchi
- 200g fresh spinach, chopped
- 250g ricotta cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Zest of 1 lemon
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Gather these ingredients to make creamy spinach ricotta gnocchi. Each item plays a key role in the dish. The potato gnocchi serves as the base, giving a soft and pillowy texture. Fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and earthy flavor. Ricotta cheese brings creaminess, while heavy cream enhances the richness.
Parmesan cheese adds a salty depth, and garlic infuses a lovely aroma. Olive oil helps sauté the garlic and spinach. Salt and pepper round out the taste, while lemon zest brightens the dish. Nutmeg adds a warm note, but it’s optional.
Make sure your ingredients are fresh for the best taste. You can substitute some items, but that may change the flavor. Enjoy the process of cooking with these ingredients. Each step brings you closer to a delicious meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Gnocchi
1. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water.
2. Add the potato gnocchi to the boiling water. Cook them until they float to the top. This usually takes 2-3 minutes.
3. Once cooked, drain the gnocchi in a colander. Set them aside for now.
Preparing the Creamy Spinach Sauce
1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Pour in the olive oil.
2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about a minute until it smells great.
3. Next, toss in the chopped spinach. Stir it until the spinach wilts, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Lower the heat and mix in the ricotta cheese and heavy cream. Stir until everything is smooth and well combined.
Final Steps
1. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if you like. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
2. Gently fold in the cooked gnocchi, making sure each piece is coated in the sauce.
3. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
4. Serve right away and enjoy your creamy spinach ricotta gnocchi!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To achieve the best texture for gnocchi, cook it just until it floats. This means it is done. Overcooking can make it mushy. Be sure to drain it well after cooking.
Adjusting seasoning is key to bringing out flavor. Always taste your sauce before serving. Add salt and pepper gradually. A small pinch of nutmeg can add warmth.
Presentation Tips
For aesthetic appeal, serve the gnocchi in shallow bowls. This gives a nice look and makes it easy to eat. Top with extra grated Parmesan for richness.
Garnishing with fresh spinach leaves adds color. You can also sprinkle cracked black pepper on top. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach will provide a vibrant color and better flavor compared to frozen spinach. Make sure to wash and chop it just before cooking.
- Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: Once the gnocchi float to the surface, they are done. Overcooking can make them mushy, so keep a close eye on them.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half for a slightly less rich flavor.
- Add a Flavor Boost: For an extra punch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or sautéing some mushrooms along with the garlic.
Variations
Substituting Ingredients
You can switch cheeses to change the taste. Try using goat cheese for tang. Cream cheese also works if you want a richer texture. For spinach, fresh is best, but frozen can save time. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well.
Adding Proteins
Want to add more protein? You can easily include cooked chicken or shrimp. Simply sauté them in the skillet before adding the spinach. If you prefer vegetarian options, chickpeas are a great choice. They add texture and are packed with nutrients.
Flavor Enhancements
Herbs can really boost the flavor of your dish. Fresh basil or parsley adds a nice touch. You might also consider adding cherry tomatoes for sweetness. Peas are another option that brings color and freshness to the gnocchi.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your creamy spinach ricotta gnocchi fresh, follow these tips:
- Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
- Use an airtight container to prevent moisture loss.
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
You can also freeze leftovers. Use a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 2 months. However, freezing may affect the texture of the sauce.
Reheating Instructions
When reheating, keep these tips in mind:
- Use a skillet over low heat to maintain texture.
- Add a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.
Stir gently to avoid breaking the gnocchi. Heat until warm throughout. This will help keep your dish creamy and delicious.
FAQs
How to make gnocchi from scratch?
To make gnocchi from scratch, you need simple ingredients. Use potatoes, flour, egg, and salt. First, boil the potatoes until soft. Then, mash them well. Mix in flour and salt. Add the egg and knead until smooth. Roll the dough into ropes and cut them into small pieces. Shape each piece with a fork for texture. Lastly, cook them in boiling water until they float. Making gnocchi this way gives a fresh taste.
Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes, you can use store-bought gnocchi. It saves time and effort. Store-bought gnocchi cooks quickly. It usually has a good texture and flavor. You can find it in the pasta aisle. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package. This option is great for busy days when you want a tasty meal fast.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can cook the gnocchi and sauce in advance. Store each in separate containers. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them gently. Add a splash of cream if the sauce thickens. This way, you have a delicious meal ready to go any time!
This blog covered a creamy spinach gnocchi recipe that’s easy to make. We discussed the ingredients, steps, and even some helpful tips. You can easily adjust the recipe with different cheeses or proteins for variety. Remember, storing leftovers properly helps maintain taste and texture. You now have a delicious dish to try and share with others. Enjoy the process of cooking and tasting your creation. You’ll impress anyone who tries i
Creamy Spinach Ricotta Gnocchi
Ingredients
- 500 g potato gnocchi
- 200 g fresh spinach, chopped
- 250 g ricotta cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1 Zest of 1 lemon
- a pinch nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the top. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet, stirring until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Lower the heat and add the ricotta cheese and heavy cream to the skillet, stirring until combined and smooth.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Allow the mixture to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Gently fold in the cooked gnocchi, ensuring each piece is coated in the creamy sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately.
