Looking for a quick yet satisfying meal? Garlic Butter Gnocchi with Spinach is a winning choice! This dish combines soft gnocchi with a rich garlic butter sauce, making it full of flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in no time. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a delightful dinner that you’ll want to make again and again!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
Additional Ingredients
– 5 oz fresh spinach
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Gather these ingredients before you start cooking. For the gnocchi, you can use store-bought or make your own. I often choose store-bought for ease, but homemade can bring a special touch. The butter and garlic form the base of the rich flavor. Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients, while the Parmesan cheese gives that final cheesy kick.
The red chili flakes are optional, but they add a nice hint of heat. Adjust salt and pepper to your taste. Fresh basil leaves not only look great but also add a lovely aroma. This dish is simple yet packed with flavor, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Gnocchi
– Boil water and salt in a pot.
– Add gnocchi until they float (2-3 mins).
– Drain and set aside.
To cook the gnocchi, fill a pot with water, adding a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil. When the water bubbles, gently place the gnocchi in. It takes only 2 to 3 minutes for them to float. This means they are ready! Once they float, drain them well. You can set them aside while you make the garlic butter.
Making Garlic Butter
– Melt butter over medium heat.
– Add minced garlic and chili flakes.
– Sauté until fragrant (1-2 mins).
For the garlic butter, take a large skillet and melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter melts and starts to bubble, add minced garlic and optional chili flakes. Stir it gently for about 1 to 2 minutes. You want the garlic to smell good but not turn brown. This step is where the magic happens, filling your kitchen with a lovely aroma.
Combining Ingredients
– Add cooked gnocchi to skillet.
– Cook for another 2-3 mins for crispiness.
– Stir in fresh spinach and wilt (1-2 mins).
Now, it’s time to combine everything. Add the cooked gnocchi into the skillet with the garlic butter. Stir gently to coat them well. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. This makes the gnocchi crispy outside but soft inside. After that, toss in the fresh spinach. Stir until it wilts down, which takes about 1 to 2 minutes. This adds a pop of color and nutrients to your dish.
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Perfect Gnocchi
To achieve the right texture for your gnocchi, cook them until they float. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes in boiling salted water. Don’t leave them too long, or they may become mushy. Drain them gently to keep their shape.
When adding spinach, remember to avoid overcooking it. Add the spinach right after the gnocchi. Stir it in for just 1-2 minutes. This keeps the bright green color and fresh taste.
Garnishing Suggestions
For a beautiful finish, use extra Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle it generously on top just before serving. It adds a rich flavor and looks great too.
Drizzle some melted butter around the edges of the plate. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the dish’s visual appeal. A couple of whole basil leaves can add a nice touch of color and freshness.
Variations
Adding Proteins
You can add proteins to your garlic butter gnocchi for a heartier meal.
– Chicken: Sauté diced chicken breast in the garlic butter. Cook until golden brown. This adds a nice texture and flavor.
– Shrimp: Toss in shrimp after cooking the garlic. Cook until they turn pink. Shrimp pairs beautifully with garlic and butter.
– Tofu: For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu. Cube and sauté until crispy. This will give you a great protein boost without meat.
Flavor Enhancements
Adding some extras can take your dish to the next level.
– Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Chop them and stir in with the spinach. They add a sweet and tangy taste that contrasts well with the creamy butter.
– Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses. Try goat cheese for creaminess or mozzarella for a gooey texture. Each cheese brings its own unique flavor.
These variations can make your garlic butter gnocchi with spinach more exciting and delicious!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your garlic butter gnocchi fresh, let them cool first. Place the gnocchi in an airtight container. This helps avoid moisture loss and keeps them tasty. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure they are in a freezer-safe container. For best results, use them within three months.
Reheating Instructions
When you are ready to enjoy leftovers, you can reheat them safely. The best method is to use a skillet. Heat a small amount of butter or oil over medium heat. Add the gnocchi and stir gently. This keeps them crisp and flavorful. You can also use the microwave if you are in a hurry. Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a lid. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This will help maintain their texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use homemade gnocchi?
Yes, you can use homemade gnocchi. Making gnocchi from scratch is fun and rewarding. You need potatoes, flour, and an egg. First, boil the potatoes until soft. Peel and mash them. Then, mix in flour and the egg until you get a dough. Roll the dough into ropes and cut them into small pieces. Use a fork to shape them, creating that classic gnocchi look. Cook them just like store-bought gnocchi. They will float when ready. Fresh gnocchi has a light and fluffy texture that adds a personal touch to your dish.
What other vegetables can I add?
You can add many veggies to this dish. Try these options:
– Cherry tomatoes for sweetness.
– Zucchini for a fresh crunch.
– Peas for color and flavor.
– Mushrooms for an earthy taste.
– Bell peppers for a pop of color.
Just sauté them with the garlic in the butter. This keeps the flavors bright and fresh. Feel free to mix and match your favorites!
How do I make this dish vegan?
Making this dish vegan is easy! Start by choosing vegan gnocchi. Many brands offer options without eggs. Replace the butter with olive oil or vegan butter. For a cheesy taste, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. This keeps the dish rich and delicious. You can still enjoy all the tasty flavors while making it plant-based!
This blog post shared simple steps to make a tasty gnocchi dish. I covered the main ingredients needed, like gnocchi, garlic, and fresh spinach. We explored cooking techniques, tips for perfect texture, and fun variations to try.
Remember, cooking is about creativity. Feel free to mix and match ingredients to suit your taste. Enjoy your meal, and share it with loved ones! Cooking can be fun and delicious.
