Imagine twirling your fork into a plate of pillowy gnocchi, draped in a luxurious, vibrant red pesto cream sauce that promises to transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Italy. This Creamy Red Pesto Gnocchi is not just a meal—it's a culinary experience that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish you can effortlessly create in your own kitchen. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a recipe that looks gourmet but comes together in just 20 minutes!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 1/2 cup red pesto
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and ensure they are at room temperature before beginning preparation.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance the gnocchi's flavor.
- Carefully add the gnocchi to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions, typically 2-3 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the surface, indicating they are fully cooked.
- While the gnocchi are cooking, prepare a large skillet over medium heat. Add heavy cream and red pesto, stirring gently to combine and create a smooth sauce.
- Drain the cooked gnocchi using a slotted spoon or colander, reserving a small amount of pasta water in case you need to adjust sauce consistency.
- Transfer the gnocchi directly into the skillet with the cream and pesto sauce. Gently toss to coat each piece evenly.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the gnocchi and stir to incorporate, allowing the cheese to melt and thicken the sauce.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a small amount of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Remove skillet from heat and let the dish rest for 1-2 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Plate the creamy red pesto gnocchi and garnish with fresh torn basil leaves.
- Serve immediately while hot, offering additional grated Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Let all ingredients come to room temperature for even cooking and smoother sauce integration.
- Salt Your Water: A pinch of salt in the boiling water enhances the gnocchi's flavor from the inside out.
- Watch for Floating Gnocchi: They're done when they float to the surface—typically 2-3 minutes.
- Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy liquid is your secret weapon for adjusting sauce consistency.
- Low and Slow Sauce: Combine cream and pesto over medium heat to prevent separation.
- Fresh Basil is Key: Tear, don't chop, for more aromatic garnish.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot, right from the skillet to the plate.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 650kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 25g
Cholesterol: 120mg
