Looking for a quick, delightful dinner? My Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi checks all the boxes! It blends soft potato gnocchi with a rich, creamy sauce and fresh spinach. Whether you’re feeding the family or impressing guests, this dish is both easy to make and bursting with flavor. Stick around as I walk you through the simple steps, tasty variations, and tips to elevate your meal to perfection!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Creamy: This dish combines the richness of cream with the freshness of spinach, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and a total cooking time of 25 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences, whether you want to go dairy-free or add more veggies.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the soft gnocchi and flavorful sauce, making it a great choice for family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound potato gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream)
Additional Ingredients
– 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
The main ingredients form the base of this creamy tomato spinach gnocchi. The potato gnocchi provides a soft and chewy texture. Olive oil adds richness and flavor, while garlic gives a nice aroma. The crushed tomatoes create a tangy sauce, and cream makes it rich and creamy.
For additional flavor, I add fresh spinach, which wilts down nicely. Dried basil and oregano bring in herb notes that enhance the dish. Salt and pepper balance the flavors, while Parmesan cheese gives an extra layer of taste.
Fresh basil leaves make a lovely garnish. They add a pop of color and a fresh taste. This mix of ingredients creates a delightful dinner that you’ll love to share.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Gnocchi
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is key for cooking gnocchi properly. Add 1 pound of potato gnocchi to the boiling water. Cook them until they float to the top. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Once they float, drain the gnocchi and set them aside.
Preparing the Sauce
Next, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté them for about 1 minute. You want them fragrant but not burned. Now, pour in 1 can of crushed tomatoes. Add 1 teaspoon of dried basil and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano for flavor. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors blend nicely.
Combining Ingredients
Now, reduce the heat to low. Add 1 cup of heavy cream to the sauce and stir until fully combined. This makes the sauce creamy and rich. Season it with salt and pepper to taste. Next, add 3 cups of chopped fresh spinach and stir just until it wilts, which takes about 2 minutes. Finally, gently fold in the cooked gnocchi. Make sure each piece is coated in that creamy sauce. If you like, sprinkle in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and mix until it melts. Let it sit for a minute before serving. Enjoy your creamy delight!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Sauce
To make your sauce creamier, use heavy cream or coconut cream. These options add a rich texture. You can also blend the crushed tomatoes for a smoother feel. When seasoning, taste as you go. Add salt and pepper slowly. This way, you create a well-balanced flavor.
Cooking Guide
For gnocchi, boiling is best. Always cook them in salted water. This adds flavor. Watch for the gnocchi to float, which means they are ready. A common mistake is overcooking. Once they float, remove them right away.
Serving Suggestions
When serving, use shallow bowls for a beautiful look. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a nice touch. For sides, try garlic bread or a simple green salad. These pair well with the creamy dish.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality tomatoes will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
- Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter version, reduce the amount of cream or use a plant-based alternative like coconut cream.
- Customize Your Herbs: Feel free to add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
- Perfect Gnocchi Texture: Ensure you don’t overcook the gnocchi; they should be tender yet slightly firm to the bite for the best texture.
Variations
Dietary Substitutions
You can easily make this dish fit your diet. For a dairy-free option, swap heavy cream for coconut cream. It adds a nice, rich flavor without the dairy. If you need gluten-free gnocchi, look for brands made from rice or corn. Many grocery stores offer good choices.
Additional Ingredients
Feel free to add protein to your dish. Chicken or shrimp works well here. Just cook them in the skillet before adding garlic. They will soak up all the flavors. You can also customize with different veggies. Try bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. They add color and taste.
Flavor Enhancements
To make this dish even more exciting, play with herbs and spices. Fresh basil or thyme can brighten the flavors. You might also enjoy adding red pepper flakes for a kick. For a unique twist, try using sun-dried tomatoes. They add a deep, sweet flavor that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your creamy tomato spinach gnocchi fresh, place it in an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers work well. This dish lasts for about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Make sure it cools down before storing it.
Freezing Guidance
If you want to freeze gnocchi, do it before adding cream. Freeze the cooked gnocchi on a baking sheet first. Once frozen, transfer it to a zip-top bag. It stays good for up to 3 months. To reheat, cook it directly from frozen in a skillet with a bit of oil. Add the creamy sauce and heat until warm.
Refreshing Leftover Meals
Use your leftovers in fun ways! Try adding them to a soup to make it heartier. Another idea is to make a pasta bake. Just mix the gnocchi with some cheese and breadcrumbs. Bake it until golden and bubbly for a new meal.
FAQs
How do I know when gnocchi is cooked?
You can tell gnocchi is cooked when it floats to the top of the water. This usually takes about two to four minutes. The gnocchi will be soft but still firm. If you want, taste one to see if it has the right texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time! Cook the gnocchi and prepare the sauce. Just keep them separate. When you are ready to eat, combine them in a skillet over low heat. This saves time on busy nights.
What can I substitute for spinach?
If you don’t have spinach, try kale or Swiss chard. Both greens work well in this recipe. You can also use arugula for a peppery flavor. Just chop them up and add them to the sauce. Cook until they wilt, just like the spinach.
This dish combines potato gnocchi with creamy tomato sauce and fresh spinach. We discussed key ingredients like garlic and herbs. You can customize it to fit your diet, adding proteins or different veggies. Proper storage keeps leftovers tasty for later meals.
Remember, cooking is fun, and this gnocchi recipe shines with simplicity. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and techniques. You now have all the tools to create a delicious meal that friends and family will love. Happy cookin
