ndulge in the perfect harmony of flavors with our delightful Gnocchi Pesto recipe. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or planning a cozy weekend feast, this dish is designed to satisfy your taste buds. Effortlessly prepared yet brimming with flavor, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering or occasion. Experience the culinary fusion of pillowy gnocchi and the aromatic charm of pesto, bringing a burst of deliciousness to your dining table.
Table of Contents
Ingredients and Instructions for Gnocchi pesto
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) of store-bought gnocchi
- 2 cups of pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup of fresh mozzarella cheese, diced
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- First of all, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s ready when you need to bake your delicious dish.
Step 2: Boil the Gnocchi
- In a big pot, heat water with a pinch of salt until it comes to a rolling boil.
- Add the gnocchi and cook them until they float to the surface, typically taking about 2-3 minutes.
- Simply drain those plump gnocchi and set them aside for a moment.
Step 3: Mix with Pesto and Tomatoes
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked gnocchi, pesto sauce, and halved cherry tomatoes. Gently toss until the gnocchi is evenly coated in the pesto.
Step 4: Layer the Baking Dish
- Take an ovenproof baking dish and spread a thin layer of the gnocchi and pesto mixture at the bottom.
Step 5: Add Mozzarella
- Sprinkle half of the diced fresh mozzarella cheese over the first layer of gnocchi.
Step 6: Repeat Layers
- Create another layer of gnocchi and pesto mixture on top of the mozzarella layer.
Step 7: Top with Mozzarella and Parmesan
- Sprinkle the remaining diced fresh mozzarella cheese evenly over the second layer.
- Finish it off by sprinkling the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 8: Bake
- Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese turns delightfully bubbly and sports a gorgeous golden-brown hue.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
- If desired, garnish your gnocchi pesto with fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of flavor and a pop of color.
- Serve while it’s hot and Savor the deliciousness!
Step 10: Enjoy
- Your gnocchi pesto is ready to be enjoyed. Enjoy it with your loved ones for a delightful dining experience.
Recipe Video:
Tips and Variations:
- Feel free to add some cooked chicken or shrimp for an extra protein boost.
- Customize the pesto sauce with your favorite herbs and ingredients like pine nuts or sun-dried tomatoes.
- If you prefer a crispy top, broil the dish for a couple of minutes at the end until it’s nicely browned.
- Pair your meal with a side salad or garlic bread to complete the dining experience.
Nutrition Facts for Gnocchi pesto (Per Serving):
| Serving Size | 1 serving |
| Calories | Approximately 480 kcal |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 29g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Total Sugars | 1g |
| Total Fat | 35g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 22mg |
| Sodium | 640mg |
Health Benefits:
- Protein Source: This dish provides a decent amount of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
- Energy from Carbohydrates: The carbohydrates in gnocchi provide a great source of energy to keep you fuelled throughout the day.
- Dietary Fiber: With some dietary fibre, this meal supports healthy digestion.
- Calcium Boost: Parmesan cheese is rich in calcium, promoting strong bones and teeth.
- Nutrient-Rich Pesto: Pesto, typically made with basil, pine nuts, and olive oil, can provide vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.
- Fresh Cherry Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are a source of vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants.
- Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil in the pesto contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Flavourful Herbs and Spices: Basil, a key ingredient in pesto, adds flavour and potentially offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Garlic, another common ingredient, may have various health benefits, including immune system support.
- Variety of Flavors: The combination of pesto, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses provides a rich and satisfying taste experience.
- Moderate Calories: This dish offers a satisfying meal without excessive calories, suitable for various dietary plans.
- Versatile Dish: Customize it with your favourite herbs and ingredients to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
Enjoy your gnocchi pesto, a well-rounded and flavourful meal!
Storage and Leftovers for Gnocchi pesto:
- Refrigeration: Place any remaining gnocchi in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it should stay fresh for 2-3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a covered saucepan over low heat or use the microwave until they’re heated through. A bit of moisture, like a splash of water or extra pesto sauce, can help maintain the dish’s moisture.
- Avoid Freezing: While refrigerating leftovers is fine, freezing isn’t recommended. Freezing may affect the texture of the gnocchi and pesto when thawed, resulting in a less enjoyable dining experience.
Now you can enjoy your gnocchi pesto both freshly made and as scrumptious leftovers without worry!