Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe

This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two is impossibly luscious, packed with vibrant basil, pillowy gnocchi, and a dreamy sauce that comes together in minutes. The dish tastes like a romantic dinner in a cozy Italian trattoria—but comes with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction, perfect for a weeknight treat or date night in!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about showcasing a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients that balance texture and flavor. Each component has a starring role, from pillowy gnocchi to fragrant pesto and a swirl of ultra-smooth ricotta making the sauce silky and rich.

• Uncooked Gnocchi: Choose good-quality store-bought gnocchi or treat yourself to homemade; these tender dumplings become beautifully plump when cooked.
• Unsalted Butter: A touch of butter adds sweetness and depth, giving the sauce its signature silkiness.
• Basil Pesto: Homemade or store-bought, pesto brings the vibrant, herby punch that anchors the whole dish—use the freshest you can find!
• Whipped Ricotta: Whipping ricotta makes it cloud-like and easy to melt into the sauce, creating luscious creaminess without heaviness (substitute heavy cream if you wish).
• Reserved Pasta Water: The secret to a glossy, cohesive sauce—its starchiness binds everything together like magic.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan: Adds saltiness and umami, and melts right in for extra richness.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: A squeeze of lemon brightens everything, cutting through the richness with a pop of freshness.
• For Homemade Pesto: Fresh basil, toasted pine nuts, garlic, extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, sea salt, and parmesan—each brings layers of flavor if you’re making pesto from scratch.

Variations

Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two is delightfully adaptable, whether you want to use what’s in your fridge, make it vegetarian or dairy-free, or add a personal spin. Don’t be afraid to play with flavors—the simple sauce is a perfect canvas for creativity!

• Swap the ricotta: Use heavy cream or a dollop of crème fraîche for a different but equally creamy result if you don’t have ricotta on hand.
• Add seasonal veggies: Stir in sautéed spinach, blistered cherry tomatoes, or fresh peas for a hit of color and nutrition.
• Protein boost: Toss in cooked chicken, crispy pancetta, or grilled shrimp for a heartier meal.
• Make it vegan: Choose a plant-based pesto, replace ricotta with a vegan alternative or blended silken tofu, and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two

Step 1: Boil the Gnocchi

Bring a pot of well-salted water to a lively boil. Add the gnocchi and cook just until they float to the surface—usually 2 to 3 minutes. Don’t wander off, as gnocchi cook in a flash! Scoop out about 1/4 cup pasta water before draining, as you’ll need that clever starchy water for your sauce.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Make the Sauce Base

In a large non-stick skillet over low heat, melt the butter until just foamy. Stir in the pesto to awaken its aroma, letting the basil and garlic perfume your kitchen. Add the whipped ricotta (or heavy cream) and stir gently—the sauce will look cozy and inviting already!

Step 3: Emulsify the Sauce

Pour in about three tablespoons of the reserved pasta water, stirring well over low heat so everything unites into a velvety, dreamy sauce. At this point, you can add more pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you hit your personal “creamy” sweet spot.

Step 4: Toss in the Gnocchi

Add the drained gnocchi straight from the pot to the skillet, stirring to coat every morsel with that beautiful green sauce. Let them simmer together for just a minute to soak up all the flavors—don’t overcook, or the gnocchi will get too soft!

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan & Lemon

Stir in the freshly grated parmesan and lemon juice, letting the cheese melt into the sauce and the lemon add a gentle, fresh zing. Taste and adjust with extra parmesan or lemon if you desire. Serve immediately, while it’s creamy and piping hot!

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two

Garnishes

Top your Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two with a generous shower of extra parmesan, a few shreds of fresh basil, or little dots of ricotta for a dreamy look. Toasted pine nuts sprinkled over add delightful crunch and a pop of golden color too!

Side Dishes

This gnocchi absolutely shines next to a simple green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette, some crusty Italian bread for mopping up the sauce, or roasted asparagus. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon takes things over the top.

Creative Ways to Present

Plate the gnocchi in shallow bowls for restaurant flair, swirl the sauce in a spiral for artsy presentation, or serve family-style in a warm oval platter with garnishes on the side so everyone can add their favorites. Finish with a crack of black pepper for contrast!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (lucky you!), pop them into an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. The gnocchi will stay creamy and delicious for up to two days, though their texture is always best on day one.

Freezing

While gnocchi dishes with cream-based sauces aren’t usually ideal for freezing (the sauce can separate), you can freeze uncooked gnocchi and even homemade pesto in small portions. Assemble fresh for the best flavor and texture when cravings strike!

Reheating

Reheat Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Microwave reheating works in a pinch—use short bursts and stir well for even heating.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to impress someone (or simply spoil yourself), Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two is always up for the task. Quick, gorgeous, and loaded with flavor, it’s the kind of recipe that feels special every single time. Go ahead—treat yourself and someone you adore to a bowlful of green, creamy comfort tonight!

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