This skillet gnocchi with pesto recipe is a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful weeknight meal. It’s ready in under 30 minutes and requires minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Get ready to impress yourself and your family!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start, gather these simple ingredients. You might already have most of them in your pantry! We’ll be using fresh pesto for the best flavor, but you can always use store-bought if you’re short on time. The full list can be found in the downloadable recipe card below. For the cheese, I recommend using a good quality Parmesan. This article has some great suggestions for finding the perfect Parmesan.
Cooking the Gnocchi
Cooking the gnocchi is the first step. Don’t overcook them! You want them to be tender but still hold their shape. Follow package directions for best results. Our guide on cooking gnocchi has some helpful tips for achieving that perfect texture.
Building the Flavor
Once the gnocchi is cooked, we’ll toss it in a skillet with the pesto, cherry tomatoes, and garlic. The heat from the pan will slightly wilt the tomatoes and infuse the dish with even more flavor. You can add some red pepper flakes here for a little kick!
Adding the Finishing Touches
After you’ve combined the gnocchi and pesto mixture, it’s time to add the final touches. Stir in your Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Check out our tips for making amazing pesto to elevate your dish even further.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious skillet gnocchi immediately while it’s hot and bubbly. Garnish with extra Parmesan and basil, and pair it with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious pesto sauce. A light white wine, like Pinot Grigio, would be a wonderful accompaniment to this dish. For a heartier meal, consider adding some grilled chicken or sausage. This website offers some amazing pairing suggestions.
Conclusion
This skillet gnocchi with pesto recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together. Give it a try and let us know what you think! Remember to adjust seasoning to your preferences, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or protein additions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of gnocchi is best for this recipe? Potato gnocchi works wonderfully in this recipe, but you can experiment with sweet potato or ricotta gnocchi as well.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the dish just before cooking.
What if I don’t have fresh pesto? Store-bought pesto will work perfectly, just be sure to check the ingredients list and adjust seasonings to your taste.
Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Where can I find more pasta recipes? Check out our other recipes section for more delicious pasta dishes! Here’s another great resource for inspiration!