Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta

Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta is one of those comforting dishes that effortlessly transforms a regular weeknight dinner into a luxurious experience. Picture soft, pillowy gnocchi enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce that’s spiked with fresh spinach and tangy feta cheese. This recipe is not only a delight to taste but also presents a perfect opportunity to gather loved ones around the table. If you’re looking to whip up something quick yet impressive, this dish is your go-to!

What Makes This Recipe Special

Why should creamy gnocchi with spinach and feta find a permanent spot on your meal rotation? For starters, it’s a time-saver! With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious dish ready in under 30 minutes. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Additionally, it’s budget-friendly; the ingredients are accessible and often found in your pantry or local grocery store.

You’ll also love how versatile it is. Whether you’re cooking for vegetarians or just looking to indulge your creamy pasta cravings, this recipe has you covered. The marriage of spinach and feta offers a delightful nutritional boost while satisfying your taste buds.

"I made this creamy gnocchi for my family, and everyone asked for seconds! It was so easy and delicious!" – Happy Cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Making creamy gnocchi with spinach and feta doesn’t require any special culinary skills. Here’s a quick overview of the process to set your expectations:

1. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions and drain.
2. Sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
3. Add fresh spinach and allow it to wilt.
4. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
5. Mix in crumbled feta cheese until it melts into the sauce.
6. Toss in the gnocchi, coat well, then season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Everything You Need for This Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 package of gnocchi
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Substitutions: You can use whole milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using cashew cream and nutritional yeast in place of feta.

Cooking Steps

1. Cook the gnocchi: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add the gnocchi, and cook as per package directions until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until it releases a fragrant aroma.

3. Add spinach: Toss in the fresh spinach and stir until it wilts down.

4. Create the sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

5. Melt feta: Stir in the crumbled feta cheese, letting it melt and combine into the creamy sauce.

6. Combine: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, stirring to ensure each piece is coated with the creamy goodness.

7. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, and you’re ready to serve!

Best Way to Serve

Creamy gnocchi with spinach and feta is delightful all on its own, but you can enhance the meal with various accompaniments. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a burst of acidity. A crusty piece of garlic bread will round out the meal perfectly, allowing everyone to enjoy every last bit of the creamy sauce.

Pairing Ideas:

• Arugula salad
• Garlic bread
• Roasted cherry tomatoes

Keeping Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Fresh Longer

To store leftovers, allow the gnocchi to cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream if necessary to revive the sauce.

Freezing Tip: While gnocchi can be frozen, the creamy sauce may not hold up well once thawed. It’s best to prepare this dish fresh, but you can freeze cooked gnocchi for future use and prepare the sauce fresh when ready to serve.

Pro Chef Tips

• Cooking Gnudi: For a twist, try using homemade gnocchi or even fresh gnudi for a gourmet experience.
• Add Protein: Kick it up a notch by adding grilled chicken or shrimp to the dish for added protein.
• Seasoning: Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can elevate the flavor profile. Don’t hesitate to sprinkle some in just before serving!

Creative Twists

Want to mix things up? Here are a few fun variations you can try:

• Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in some sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.
• Use Different Cheeses: Swap feta for goat cheese or even a sharp cheddar for a twist on flavor.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat.

Your Questions Answered

How long does this recipe take to prepare?
The total time is about 30 minutes, making it a quick option for busy nights.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the gnocchi can be cooked earlier, it’s best to prepare the creamy sauce just before serving to maintain its texture.

What can I substitute for gnocchi?
For a gluten-free option, you can use cauliflower gnocchi, or even try it with pasta like farfalle or penne.

Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience destined to delight everyone at your table. With its straightforward preparation and rich flavors, you’ll find it becomes a cherished recipe in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy creating and savoring every bite!

Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta

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• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A luxurious dish of soft, pillowy gnocchi in a rich, creamy sauce with fresh spinach and tangy feta cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 package of gnocchi
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add the gnocchi, and cook as per package directions until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until it releases a fragrant aroma.
3. Toss in the fresh spinach and stir until it wilts down.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese, letting it melt and combine into the creamy sauce.
6. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, stirring to ensure each piece is coated with the creamy goodness.
7. Add salt and pepper to taste, and you’re ready to serve!

Notes

Best served with arugula salad or garlic bread. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: gnocchi, creamy pasta, spinach, feta, quick dinner