Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta
Gnocchi is one of those dishes that can easily win over the hearts of many. The fluffy little dumplings combined with a creamy sauce are practically comfort in a bowl. Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta elevates this already delightful dish with vibrant flavors and a rich texture that makes it irresistible.
Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, this recipe takes relatively little time to prepare but yields an impressive, gourmet result. By combining the lightness of gnocchi with the creaminess of feta and the earthiness of spinach, you create a filling yet elegant meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a newcomer to the kitchen, this dish is approachable and rewarding.
Why make this recipe
Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta stands out partly due to its delightful fusion of flavors and textures. Fresh spinach adds a subtle bitterness that balances beautifully with the saltiness of feta cheese, while the heavy cream creates a dreamy sauce that clings lovingly to the gnocchi. This combination not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides a satisfying, enriching experience for the senses. It is a dish that celebrates simplicity, as the ingredients work together harmoniously to deliver a meal that feels indulgent without being overly complicated.
Another reason to whip up this dish is its versatility. The recipe can be modified to fit your personal preferences or whatever you have on hand. Feel free to add additional vegetables or protein as you desire. The inherent nature of gnocchi allows for creativity, making it an excellent option for meal prep or last-minute dinners when you might be low on time.
How to make Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta
Making Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta is a fairly straightforward process. Begin by cooking the gnocchi according to package instructions, which usually entails boiling them until they float to the surface. This simple step avoids overcooking while ensuring the exterior remains delicately soft. The gnocchi will later be combined with a rich sauce that brings the dish to life, so it’s essential not to skip this foundational component.
While the gnocchi is cooking, you can focus on preparing the sauce. Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add minced garlic, letting it sauté until it becomes fragrant, releasing its aromatic oils into the dish. It’s crucial to avoid burning the garlic, as this would lead to bitterness instead of the intended flavor enhancement. After you’ve achieved a golden color, toss in the fresh spinach. Cook it until wilted, which will take only a few minutes. The vibrant green of the spinach adds a lovely contrast against the creamy backdrop of the dish.
Next, carefully pour in the heavy cream, stirring the mixture to blend the ingredients smoothly. As the cream heats up, it will thicken and create that decadent sauce we crave in a creamy pasta dish. To this creamy base, add the crumbled feta cheese. Mixing it into the sauce results in pockets of salty, tangy goodness that elevate the overall flavor profile. After the gnocchi is cooked, combine it with the sauce, ensuring each piece is generously coated. A sprinkle of salt and pepper adjusts the seasoning to your taste. Finally, serve the dish hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese to enhance richness.
Ingredients
- 1 package 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
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Directions
- Cook gnocchi according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine.
- Add crumbled feta cheese and mix well.
- Combine cooked gnocchi with the sauce and stir to coat.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Time Breakdown
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
How to serve Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta
Serving Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta is all about presentation and enhancing the dish’s already sumptuous nature. When you plate the gnocchi, aim for a generous helping in the center of the plate. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a pleasing contrast and invites guests to dig in. Consider garnishing with a few leaves of fresh spinach or a light drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch of color and sophistication.
This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad can counterbalance the rich flavors of the gnocchi, providing a delightful experience for your diners. For a truly comforting meal, serve it with warm, crusty bread on the side to soak up any remaining cream sauce.
How to store Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta
To store leftover Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta, allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. By minimizing exposure to air, you help preserve its flavors and texture during storage. The dish can be refrigerated for up to three days. When you reheat it, consider using a skillet to gently warm it over low heat, adding a splash of cream or a bit of water to maintain creaminess and prevent the sauce from thickening excessively.
Avoid freezing this dish, as the texture of the gnocchi can change when thawed, leading to a mushier result. The freshness of the spinach and the cream sauce also do not hold up well in freezing conditions.
Tips to make Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta
To elevate your Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta, consider using homemade gnocchi if you have the time. The difference in texture and flavor can be remarkable. You can experiment with different cheeses as well; for instance, swapping goat cheese for feta provides an entirely different, yet equally delicious experience with a tangier flavor.
Herbs and spices can also be introduced based on your taste preferences. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a touch of heat, while fresh herbs like basil or parsley can provide a refreshing accent. To make this dish more substantial, consider adding cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms for added protein and depth.
Variation
No major variations, but you can adjust seasonings to taste.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
• Calories: 480 kcal
• Protein: 16 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fat: 25 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 750 mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi, but follow the package instructions for cooking times to ensure they are properly cooked.
Q: What can I use if I don’t have feta cheese?
A: If feta cheese is unavailable, ricotta or goat cheese can serve as a delightful substitute that will alter the texture and flavor slightly.
Q: Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
A: Yes, Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta is suitable for vegetarians, as all the ingredients are plant-based aside from the dairy.
Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package 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
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
Cooking Gnocchi
- Cook gnocchi according to package instructions.
Preparing the Sauce
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine.
- Add crumbled feta cheese and mix well.
Combining and Serving
- Combine cooked gnocchi with the sauce and stir to coat.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
