If you’re craving a quick, delicious dinner, look no further than this Garlic Butter Gnocchi with Spinach. This dish bursts with flavor and is super easy to make. You only need a handful of ingredients, and in under 30 minutes, you’ll have a warm, comforting meal on the table. Let’s dive into this easy dinner delight that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 lb gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 5 oz fresh spinach, rinsed and dried
– Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
– Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Garlic Butter Gnocchi with Spinach is simple yet full of flavor. The star of this dish is the gnocchi. You can buy it at the store or make it at home. I love using fresh ingredients, so I always choose spinach that is bright green and crisp.
The unsalted butter gives a rich taste to the dish. Minced garlic adds a punch of flavor. If you like a bit of heat, add the red chili flakes. They will spice things up nicely.
Parmesan cheese makes everything better. I sprinkle it on top before serving. Fresh basil leaves not only look pretty but also add a nice aroma.
Each of these ingredients plays a key role in creating a delightful meal. You will enjoy the taste of garlic butter, the softness of gnocchi, and the freshness of spinach all in one bowl.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Gnocchi
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Carefully add 1 lb of gnocchi to the pot.
3. Cook until the gnocchi rise to the surface, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Drain the gnocchi in a colander and set them aside.
Making the Garlic Butter Sauce
1. Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add 4 cloves of finely minced garlic and optional 1/2 teaspoon of red chili flakes.
3. Sauté the mixture for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is aromatic but not brown.
Combining Gnocchi and Spinach
1. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet.
2. Stir gently to coat the gnocchi in garlic butter, cooking for 2-3 minutes.
3. Add 5 oz of fresh spinach and stir until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes.
Final Seasoning and Plating
1. Season with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
2. Plate the dish and garnish with 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking tips for perfect gnocchi
How to tell if gnocchi is done
To know if your gnocchi is ready, watch for them to float. As they cook, they will rise to the surface of the water. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. When they float, they are done cooking!
Avoiding mushy gnocchi
To keep your gnocchi firm, do not overcook them. Follow the package instructions closely. Drain them right away to stop the cooking process. A quick rinse with cold water can also help.
Enhancing flavors and textures
Alternative herbs for garnish
While fresh basil adds great flavor, try using parsley or thyme. Both herbs give a fresh touch. They pair well with garlic and butter. Use them to switch up the taste!
Substitute options for ingredients
If you want to change things, swap the butter for olive oil. This makes the dish lighter. For the cheese, try nutritional yeast for a vegan option. You can also add other veggies like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers to add color and flavor!
Variations
Adding Proteins
You can easily enhance this dish with protein. Chicken or shrimp works great here. Just cook the protein in the skillet before adding the gnocchi. For chicken, cut it into bite-sized pieces. Season it with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown. For shrimp, cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
If you prefer vegetarian options, think about adding beans or lentils. These options add protein and fiber. You can toss them in with the spinach for a hearty touch.
Making it Vegan
To make this dish vegan, swap the butter for olive oil or a plant-based butter. For the cheese, use a vegan cheese option or nutritional yeast. Nutritional yeast gives a cheesy flavor and adds nutrients.
Feel free to add more vegetables too. Zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms work well. Just sauté them with the garlic before adding the gnocchi.
Spicy Variations
If you love heat, add different spices. Besides red chili flakes, try cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. This adds a fun kick to your dish.
You can also mix in other veggies for added flavor. Cherry tomatoes or broccoli can brighten up the dish. Just sauté them with the garlic for a few minutes before adding the gnocchi.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store leftovers, let the garlic butter gnocchi cool down. Place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to add a bit of extra butter or oil to keep it moist.
If you want to save it longer, freezing is a great option. To freeze, first, spread the gnocchi on a baking sheet. Make sure they are in a single layer. Freeze them for about one hour. After that, transfer the gnocchi to a freezer-safe bag. This way, they won’t stick together. You can store them for up to three months.
Reheating Tips
To reheat your gnocchi, you have a few good methods. The best way is in a skillet. Heat it over medium heat. Add a little butter or oil to the pan. Once hot, add the gnocchi and toss gently. This helps keep the texture nice.
You can also use the microwave. Place the gnocchi in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of water or broth. Cover it with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This keeps the gnocchi from getting dry.
These tips will help you enjoy your garlic butter gnocchi just like when it was fresh!
FAQs
Can I make gnocchi from scratch?
Yes, you can make gnocchi from scratch! You need just a few simple ingredients. The main ones are potatoes, flour, and egg. First, cook the potatoes until soft. Then, mash them well. Next, mix the potatoes with flour and the egg to form a dough. Roll it into logs and cut into small pieces. Finally, shape each piece with a fork for that classic gnocchi look. Cooking time is similar to store-bought. They float when done!
What is the best type of gnocchi to use?
Both store-bought and homemade gnocchi work well. Store-bought gnocchi saves time and is easy to find. It often cooks in just a few minutes. Homemade gnocchi tastes fresh and can be made to your liking. If you enjoy cooking, I suggest trying both. You might find you love the taste of fresh gnocchi more!
How can I adjust the recipe for gluten-free diets?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free gnocchi. Many brands offer tasty options made with rice or corn flour. Always check labels to ensure they fit your needs. You can follow the same cooking method as regular gnocchi. Just be mindful of cooking times, as gluten-free versions may differ. Enjoy a great meal without worry!
This blog post shared a tasty gnocchi recipe, from cooking to serving. You learned about the ingredients, making the garlic butter sauce, and combining flavors. We discussed tips for perfecting your gnocchi and explored variations to suit any taste. Storage and reheating advice ensures your meal stays fresh.
You can easily create this dish and enjoy it your way! Cooking should be fun and flexible, so feel free to experiment with flavors and ingredients. Get ready to impress your family with this simple yet delicious meal!
