Pesto Gnocchi
Pesto Gnocchi! Classic basil pesto is tossed with satisfying gnocchi and topped with grated cheese in this easy and flavorful dish that makes a great weeknight dinner year round.
Prep Time10 minutes mins
Cook Time5 minutes mins
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Servings: 4 servings
Author: The Kitchen Prep
- 4 cups fresh basil leaves
- ½ cup olive oil
- ⅓ cup pine nuts
- 2 garlic cloves
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese plus extra for sprinkling
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 16 ounce container store bought gnocchi
Make Pesto
Place basil, olive oil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan in a food processor. Pulse until combined and chopped. (You may need to stop and push the mixture down with a spatula a few times.)
While continually pulsing, drizzle in the olive oil and blend until desired consistency is reached. Set aside.
Make Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Cook gnocchi according to package directions.
Drain gnocchi.
Add desired amount of pesto to gnocchi and toss to coat.
Plate gnocchi and top with extra Parmesan before serving.
Variations
- Add cooked, crumbled sausage, chopped grilled chicken or even cooked shrimp to the dish for a bit more protein.
- Toss in some roasted red peppers, roasted cherry tomatoes or chopped sundried tomatoes for added color and flavor.
- Make it extra decadent by stirring in a few tablespoons of heavy cream for a super creamy, luscious version.
- Add a hint of spice with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes!
Diet-Specific Substitutions
This recipe is naturally vegetarian (be sure to use vegetarian Parmesan cheese.)
- Gluten-free: While gnocchi is made with potatoes, most brands also contain wheat flower. Use a gluten-free gnocchi brand or something like cauliflower gnocchi to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Vegan or Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based "Parmesan-style" cheese instead of regular Parmesan.