Description
Enjoy a quick and creamy homemade pesto gnocchi dish perfect for two. This recipe combines tender gnocchi with a rich, herbaceous pesto and smooth ricotta, all finished with fresh lemon juice and Parmesan for a flavorful, comforting meal.
Ingredients
For Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two:
6 oz. Uncooked Gnocchi
1 tbsp. Unsalted Butter
1/4 cup Basil Pesto
1/4 cup Whipped Ricotta
1/4 cup reserved Pasta Water
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan
1 tbsp. fresh Lemon Juice
For Homemade Basil Pesto:
1 cup fresh Basil Leaves
2 tbsp. toasted Pine Nuts
1 clove Garlic
1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/2 tsp. fresh Lemon Juice
1/4 tsp. Sea Salt
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Boil the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package directions, typically about 2-3 minutes. Before draining, reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
- Prepare the Sauce: Melt the butter in a large non-stick pan over low heat. Stir in the pesto, then add the whipped ricotta and mix until smooth. Gradually stir in three tablespoons of reserved pasta water until the sauce becomes creamy.
- Add Gnocchi: Toss the cooked gnocchi into the sauce until well coated. For a thinner sauce, add more reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time.
- Add Parmesan and Lemon: Stir in the grated Parmesan and lemon juice until fully incorporated. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
- Make Basil Pesto: Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 7-8 minutes until golden, then let cool. In a mini food processor, combine basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, and smashed garlic. Process until minced. Slowly add olive oil while pulsing until smooth. Add Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and salt, pulsing until combined.
Notes
- Store-bought basil pesto is a convenient option, but homemade pesto adds a fresh flavor.
- Whip ricotta until smooth for a creamy texture, or substitute with heavy cream.
- Stir in extra pasta water if you prefer a looser, creamier sauce.
- This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the perfect texture and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
