Pesto Gnocchi Recipe
If you have a soft spot for comforting Italian dishes that come together in no time, this Pesto Gnocchi Recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Picture pillowy gnocchi, gently toasted to a golden hue, then lovingly coated in vibrant, aromatic pesto that bursts with fresh basil and pine nut goodness. The finishing touch of nutty Parmesan cheese ties the whole dish together, making every bite truly irresistible. This recipe is incredibly straightforward yet delivers flavors that feel like a warm embrace on a plate, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples, each playing an essential role in creating the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and color for your pesto gnocchi. Freshness and quality here truly make a difference, transforming a quick meal into something special.
- 1 pound store-bought gnocchi: Convenient and tender, they cook quickly and provide that soft, pillowy bite everyone loves.
- 1/3 cup store-bought or homemade pesto sauce: The star of the show, packed with fresh basil, garlic, and pine nuts, bringing vibrant flavor options for your personal touch.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a lovely richness and helps to lightly brown the gnocchi for extra texture and flavor.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, nutty finish that melts into the pesto and gnocchi for a luscious coating.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings highlighting all the other flavors without overpowering them.
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional): Provides a fresh, fragrant pop of green that looks beautiful and enhances the basil notes in your pesto.
How to Make Pesto Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt to the water seasons the gnocchi from the inside out. Drop in the gnocchi and watch closely; they’re done as soon as they float to the surface, which usually takes 2 to 3 minutes. This quick cooking ensures the gnocchi stay tender and light.
Step 2: Drain and Prepare for Sautéing
Carefully drain the gnocchi to remove all the water. This step is crucial because you want them just dry enough to crisp beautifully in the skillet without steaming. Set the gnocchi aside while you heat the olive oil.
Step 3: Brown the Gnocchi
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the cooked gnocchi and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes. This light browning creates little golden pockets of flavor and a delicate crunch on the outside while keeping the inside soft and comforting.
Step 4: Toss with Pesto Sauce
Lower the heat to medium-low and add your pesto sauce to the skillet. Toss the gnocchi gently but thoroughly until they are evenly coated in the bright green sauce. Continue cooking for 1 to 2 more minutes, allowing the pesto’s oils and herbs to mingle with the gnocchi perfectly.
Step 5: Season and Finish
Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the gnocchi and toss lightly to melt it into the warm pesto, creating a rich and cohesive dish. If you’d like, finish with a few fresh basil leaves to add color and an herbal lift.
How to Serve Pesto Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are a classic, but you can also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil to elevate the dish. Toasted pine nuts scatter beautifully on top, adding a lovely crunch that complements the softness of the gnocchi.
Side Dishes
This Pesto Gnocchi Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables such as asparagus or cherry tomatoes. These fresh sides balance the rich basil and cheese flavors, making the whole meal feel bright and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pesto gnocchi in small individual bowls sprinkled with microgreens for an elegant touch. Or layer the gnocchi in a shallow baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil briefly for a bubbly, golden crust that adds texture and visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Since pesto can sometimes darken, stir gently before reheating to refresh the vibrant flavors and maintain that fresh pesto taste.
Freezing
Freezing pesto gnocchi is possible but not ideal as gnocchi can become mushy after thawing. If you choose to freeze, arrange the cooked gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring into a freezer-safe bag, then use within one month for best quality.
Reheating
Reheat pesto gnocchi gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave with a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out. Avoid overheating as the gnocchi texture is delicate and can become overly soft or gummy.
FAQs
Can I use homemade gnocchi for this Pesto Gnocchi Recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi works beautifully and can elevate the dish even further, adding a fresh, handmade quality. Just be sure to cook them carefully to avoid overcooking.
What if I don’t have pesto; can I make it from scratch quickly?
Yes! Homemade pesto is surprisingly quick to make with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, olive oil, and a pinch of salt blended until smooth. It tastes fantastic and makes this recipe extra special.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Store-bought gnocchi often contains wheat, so it is typically not gluten-free. However, you can find gluten-free gnocchi varieties or make your own using gluten-free flour options to enjoy this dish safely.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy pancetta pieces all make wonderful protein additions that complement the pesto’s fresh flavors without overpowering the gnocchi.
How spicy is pesto? Can I adjust its heat?
Pesto is usually mild and fresh, focusing on basil’s aromatic qualities. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a little kick or keep it mild for the whole family to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
This Pesto Gnocchi Recipe is a delightful way to bring easy Italian comfort into your everyday meals. It’s simple, satisfying, and bursting with fresh, bright flavors that never get old. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this dish’s quick preparation and pleasing taste make it a sure winner. I can’t wait for you to try it and add your own twist to make it truly yours!
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Pesto Gnocchi Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This simple and flavorful Pesto Gnocchi recipe features store-bought gnocchi sautéed to a light golden brown and tossed with vibrant pesto sauce, finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for a quick and delicious Italian-inspired meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Gnocchi
- 1 pound store-bought gnocchi
Sauce & Garnishes
- 1/3 cup store-bought or homemade pesto sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes, until they float to the surface. Drain the gnocchi and set aside.
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the Gnocchi: Add the cooked gnocchi to the hot skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until they develop a light golden-brown crust.
- Add the Pesto Sauce: Pour the 1/3 cup of pesto sauce into the skillet with the gnocchi. Toss gently to coat all the gnocchi evenly in the pesto.
- Heat Through: Continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring gently, to warm the sauce and let it meld with the gnocchi.
- Season and Serve: Season the gnocchi with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the top and toss lightly to combine.
- Garnish: Optionally, garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving for added aroma and color.
Notes
- For a homemade pesto, blend fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil.
- If you prefer a crispier texture, sauté gnocchi a bit longer but watch closely to prevent burning.
- Use gluten-free gnocchi for a gluten-free meal option.
- Add cherry tomatoes or cooked chicken for a heartier dish.
- Leftover pesto gnocchi can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
