Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi

1. Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water to flavor the gnocchi as it cooks.
2. Cook the Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the boiling water. Gnocchi cooks quickly, usually within 2-3 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they float to the surface of the water.
3. Drain the Gnocchi: Once the gnocchi have floated to the top, use a slotted spoon or gently drain them in a colander. Reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
4. Set Aside: Set the cooked gnocchi aside while you prepare the creamy pesto sauce.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce

1. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
2. Add the Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently to prevent the cream from sticking to the pan or burning. Simmer the cream for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
3. Stir in the Pesto: Once the cream has thickened, stir in the basil pesto. The pesto will immediately infuse the cream with its vibrant green color and bold flavors of basil, garlic, and Parmesan. Stir to combine thoroughly.
4. Add Parmesan Cheese: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. As the cheese melts, it will further thicken the sauce and add a rich, umami flavor.
5. Season the Sauce: Taste the sauce and season with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste. The sauce should be creamy, savory, and slightly tangy from the Parmesan.

Step 3: Combine the Gnocchi with the Sauce

1. Add Gnocchi to the Sauce: Once your sauce is ready, add the cooked gnocchi directly to the skillet. Use tongs or a wooden spoon to gently toss the gnocchi in the creamy pesto sauce, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
2. Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to thin it out slightly. The starchy water will also help the sauce adhere better to the gnocchi.
3. Simmer for 1-2 Minutes: Let the gnocchi simmer in the sauce for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Add Fresh Basil: Just before serving, garnish the creamy pesto gnocchi with fresh basil leaves for an extra pop of color and freshness.
2. Serve: Serve the gnocchi hot, topped with extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired. This dish is best enjoyed immediately, while the sauce is still creamy and the gnocchi is tender.

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Pesto: If possible, make your own pesto using fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil. Fresh pesto has a brighter flavor compared to store-bought versions.
• Cook Gnocchi Gently: Gnocchi cooks very quickly and can become mushy if overcooked. Watch carefully as they boil, and remove them as soon as they float to the surface.
• Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is key to creating a smooth, cohesive sauce. Add it gradually to achieve your desired consistency.
• Adjust to Taste: Pesto can vary in flavor depending on the ingredients used. Taste the sauce before adding salt and adjust the seasoning to your preference.

Variations

1. Vegan Creamy Pesto Gnocchi

To make this dish vegan, use a dairy-free pesto and replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based milk like almond or oat. Use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.

2. Chicken Pesto Gnocchi

For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken to the dish. You can grill or sauté chicken breasts, then slice them and toss them with the gnocchi in the creamy pesto sauce.

3. Shrimp Pesto Gnocchi

Sauté shrimp in olive oil and garlic until they are pink and cooked through, then mix them into the creamy pesto gnocchi for a seafood twist. The shrimp adds a sweet, briny flavor that complements the basil and garlic in the pesto.

4. Vegetable Pesto Gnocchi

For a vegetarian-friendly version packed with veggies, add sautéed spinach, arugula, or roasted cherry tomatoes. You can also mix in steamed broccoli or zucchini for added texture and nutrition.

5. Spicy Pesto Gnocchi

If you like a bit of heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the creamy pesto sauce. This spicy kick will contrast beautifully with the creamy, herbaceous flavors.

Pairing Suggestions

Wine Pairings:

• Sauvignon Blanc: A crisp, dry white wine that complements the herbal notes of the pesto.
• Chardonnay: A fuller-bodied white wine with buttery notes that pair well with the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes:

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crispy garlic bread on the side to soak up the creamy pesto sauce.
• Caesar Salad: A refreshing Caesar salad with crisp romaine, Parmesan, and croutons provides a crunchy contrast to the soft gnocchi.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers would make a light and healthy side dish that pairs well with the rich pesto gnocchi.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Make-Ahead:

• Gnocchi: If you’re making homemade gnocchi, you can prepare them ahead of time and freeze them. Just boil them straight from frozen when you’re ready to make the dish.
• Sauce: The creamy pesto sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen it if needed.

Storage:

• Leftovers: Store leftover creamy pesto gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little cream or water to bring back the sauce’s creamy texture.

Conclusion

Creamy Pesto Gnocchi is an indulgent yet simple dish that brings together the rich flavors of pesto and the soft, pillowy texture of gnocchi in a velvety cream sauce. Whether you make it as a quick weeknight meal or serve it to impress guests, this recipe is a winner. Its versatility allows you to add your favorite proteins or veggies, making it a customizable and crowd-pleasing dish. Enjoy this comforting meal with a side of garlic bread and a crisp salad, and you’ve got a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home!