Pea Salad Recipe
Pesto Gnocchi is a simple yet elegant Italian dish made with soft, pillowy potato gnocchi tossed in a fragrant basil pesto sauce. It’s bursting with fresh flavors of basil, garlic, and Parmesan, making it a quick and satisfying meal that feels gourmet!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
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Ingredients:
For the Gnocchi:
1 lb (450 g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
Salt, for boiling water
For the Pesto Sauce:
2 cups fresh basil leaves
⅓ cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a budget-friendly option)
2 cloves of garlic c
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Optional Garnish:
Extra Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves
Toasted pine nuts
Servings: 4
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Ingredients:
For the Gnocchi:
1 lb (450 g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
Salt, for boiling water
For the Pesto Sauce:
2 cups fresh basil leaves
⅓ cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a budget-friendly option)
2 cloves of garlic
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Optional Garnish:
Extra Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves
Toasted pine nuts
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Instructions:
Cook the gnocchi:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes). Remove with a slotted spoon and drain.
Prepare the pesto:
In a food processor or blender, combine basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan. Pulse until finely chopped.
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while blending until the mixture is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice if desired.
Combine gnocchi and pesto:
In a large skillet over low heat, toss the cooked gnocchi with the pesto until evenly coated and warmed through.
Serve:
Transfer to plates and garnish with extra Parmesan, basil, and pine nuts. Serve immediately.
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Health Benefits:
Rich in Healthy Fats:
The olive oil and nuts in pesto provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that support cardiovascular health.
Antioxidant Boost:
Basil is loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help fight oxidative stress.
Good Source of Protein and Calcium:
Parmesan cheese adds protein and calcium for bone strength and muscle function.
Supports Energy Levels:
Gnocchi made from potatoes provides a complex carbohydrate source for sustained energy.
Customizable for Healthier Options:
Use whole-wheat or cauliflower gnocchi for added fiber, and substitute nutritional yeast for cheese to make it vegan-friendly.
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Pesto Gnocchi Recipe, Italian Pasta Dish, Quick Vegetarian Dinner, Basil Pesto Recipe