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Heavy cream is a luxurious ingredient that plays a pivotal role in creating rich and velvety sauces. Its high-fat content (at least 36% fat) not only adds a creamy texture but also helps to create a stable emulsion in sauces, preventing separation. When combined with other ingredients, heavy cream can enhance flavors, providing a smooth mouthfeel that elevates any dish, especially pasta sauces. In the context of our Creamy Pesto Gnocchi, the heavy cream serves to mellow the sharpness of the basil pesto while adding a luscious richness that clings beautifully to the gnocchi.

Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach

Discover the deliciousness of Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach Delight, a dish that perfectly combines the comforting texture of gnocchi with the vibrant flavors of fresh pesto and spinach. This easy-to-make recipe is ideal for any occasion, featuring high-quality ingredients like heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese that create a rich and indulgent sauce. Embrace the essence of Italian cuisine with this modern twist that not only delights the palate but also offers a beautiful presentation for your table.
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Ingredients
  

1 pound gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)

2 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: Pine nuts for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Gnocchi: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous amount of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Gently add the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions, typically until they rise to the surface. This usually takes 2-4 minutes, depending on the gnocchi. Once ready, drain the gnocchi and set aside.

    Sauté Garlic and Spinach: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden. Next, stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and tender. Season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.

      Prepare the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine it with the sautéed spinach and garlic. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes, letting the cream thicken slightly.

        Add Pesto and Cheese: Stir in the basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until fully incorporated into the creamy sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.

          Combine Gnocchi and Sauce: Carefully add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, tossing gently to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the creamy pesto sauce. Allow it to warm through for an additional 2-3 minutes over low heat.

            Serve: Serve the creamy pesto gnocchi in bowls, garnishing with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of pine nuts for added crunch and flavor, if desired. Enjoy immediately while hot for the best taste!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 servings