Romantic Spinach and Parmesan Gnocchi

Name: Romantic Spinach and Parmesan Gnocchi
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes; ½ cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil, for garnish

Highlighted under: Family Meals

I love cooking this Romantic Spinach and Parmesan Gnocchi for special nights in. There's something so comforting about the pillowy texture of gnocchi paired with the rich flavors of spinach and Parmesan. This dish not only warms the soul but also impresses my loved ones every time. As I whisk the ingredients together, the aroma fills my kitchen, setting a lovely ambiance. Plus, it's surprisingly simple to make, allowing me to focus on enjoying the moment rather than spending too much time in the kitchen.

Created by

Belinda Fraser

Last updated on 2026-01-11T20:05:35.326Z

Making this gnocchi was an exploration into flavors I never thought would blend so seamlessly. I initially hesitated about using spinach, but it added a wonderful freshness that elevated the dish. My trick is to sauté the spinach just enough to wilt it before mixing it into the dough, giving it that vibrant, green color that looks fantastic on the plate.

I also learned that incorporating the right amount of Parmesan is crucial. Not only does it infuse the gnocchi with a rich, cheesy flavor, but it also helps bind the dough together beautifully. Each bite is a delightful combination of creamy and cheesy, making it the perfect dish to share with someone special.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The rich flavors of creamy Parmesan paired with fresh spinach.
A delightful, tender texture that melts in your mouth.
Perfect for a romantic dinner or a cozy night in.

      

The Art of Making Gnocchi

Making gnocchi can be a bit intimidating, but with a few simple steps, you can master this delightful Italian dish. The key is to avoid overworking the dough; once the flour is added, gently knead until a smooth consistency is achieved. This helps maintain the fluffy texture of the gnocchi after cooking. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour until it is manageable but be cautious, as too much flour can lead to denser gnocchi.

When shaping the gnocchi, aim for uniformity to ensure even cooking. If you're new to rolling, start by dividing the dough into smaller sections. Each piece should resemble a thick snake, no wider than ¾ inch. The ridges created by the fork are not only for aesthetics but help the sauce cling better. A small detail that makes a big difference in how each bite tastes!

Perfecting the Sauce

The sauce is where the magic truly happens. Using heavy cream allows for a rich, velvety texture that complements the gnocchi beautifully. Heat the olive oil on medium, ensuring it’s hot enough to sauté the garlic without burning. You want the garlic to turn golden and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, before adding the cream. This technique enhances the overall flavor, infusing the oil with garlic goodness that envelops each gnocchi piece.

To elevate your sauce, consider adding freshly cracked black pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. If you're a fan of herbs, fresh parsley or thyme can add a wonderful aromatic layer. Remember, when combining the gnocchi with the sauce, do it gently, as tossing too vigorously might break the delicate dumplings. The aim is to achieve a harmonious blend where each gnocchi is completely coated.

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil, for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are well-measured and fresh for the best results.

Instructions

Directions

Make the Gnocchi Dough

In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta, Parmesan, egg, and season with salt and pepper. Gradually add the flour until a soft dough forms. Knead gently on a floured surface until smooth.

Shape the Gnocchi

Divide the dough into smaller pieces and roll each into a long rope, about ¾ inch thick. Cut into 1-inch pieces and use a fork to press down lightly on each to create ridges. Set aside.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi in batches, cooking until they float to the top, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, and let simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce, tossing gently to coat. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the sauce, which complements the spinach beautifully.

Storing and Reheating Gnocchi

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, cook the gnocchi but store them separately from the sauce. Allow them to cool completely, then place in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can simply toss them in boiling water for a minute to warm up before adding them to the sauce, ensuring they retain their texture and don’t become mushy.

For longer storage, consider freezing the uncooked gnocchi. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. You can cook them directly from the freezer—just increase the boiling time slightly, as they may take 3-4 extra minutes to float to the top.

Gnocchi Variations

While this recipe shines with spinach and Parmesan, don't hesitate to experiment with other flavors. For instance, substituting the spinach with Swiss chard or kale will yield similarly nutritious results. You can also infuse the ricotta with herbs or even a pinch of nutmeg to give a warm, aromatic twist to the gnocchi.

For a twist on the sauce, try incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes for added texture and flavor. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts can also provide a wonderful crunch. This versatility allows you to tailor the dish perfectly to your preference, whether you’re in the mood for something vibrant or comforting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the gnocchi ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the gnocchi and freeze them. Just cook them directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or mascarpone cheese as an alternative, though the texture might be slightly different.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use gluten-free flour to make the gnocchi. Just ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

→ How can I store leftover gnocchi?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a bit of olive oil.