Creamy Pesto Gnocchi Recipe
This creamy pesto gnocchi recipe is a quick and delicious meal that combines pillowy gnocchi with a rich, flavorful pesto cream sauce. Finished with shaved parmesan and a touch of lemon zest, it’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive last-minute dish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound gnocchi (16 ounces)
- 1/3 cup pesto (basil or arugula pesto recommended)
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/3 cup shaved parmesan cheese
- 1 Tablespoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Cook the gnocchi: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to the package directions, typically until they float to the surface. Drain well and set aside.
- Make the pesto cream sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the pesto and heavy cream. Whisk continuously to combine the ingredients evenly. Cook the sauce for 3-5 minutes, whisking occasionally, until it thickens slightly and just begins to simmer.
- Combine gnocchi and sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the pesto cream sauce. Stir gently to coat all the gnocchi pieces evenly. Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish the gnocchi with shaved parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest for brightness. Serve immediately and enjoy this creamy, flavorful dish!
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Use fresh lemon zest to enhance the flavor without adding extra acidity.
- Gnocchi can be homemade or store-bought; cooking times might vary slightly.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Find it online: https://recipethrive.com/creamy-pesto-gnocchi-recipe/
