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Here’s what you need to make creamy sun-dried tomato gnocchi: - 1 pound potato gnocchi (fresh or packaged) - 1 cup heavy cream - 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped - 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - Fresh basil leaves for garnish These ingredients blend together to create a rich and tasty dish. The gnocchi becomes soft and tender. The sun-dried tomatoes add a nice touch of sweetness. Fresh spinach gives color and nutrients. Heavy cream makes the sauce creamy and smooth. Parmesan cheese adds a salty kick that ties everything together. When shopping, look for good-quality sun-dried tomatoes. If you can find them in oil, grab those for more flavor. Fresh spinach is best, but you can use frozen if needed. The use of fresh garlic makes a big difference in taste. You can switch things up with your favorite herbs. You could even add chicken or shrimp for extra protein. This dish is quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight meal. Keep these ingredients on hand for a fast and delicious dinner. - Step 1: Heat the Oil First, grab a large pot or deep skillet. Pour in the olive oil and set the heat to medium. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about one minute until the garlic smells great and turns slightly golden. - Step 2: Incorporate the Tomatoes Now, toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes along with the Italian seasoning. Stir this mix for about two minutes. This helps the flavors blend well and makes your kitchen smell amazing. - Step 3: Create the Sauce Next, slowly add the heavy cream to the pot. Turn up the heat a bit until the mixture gently simmers. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and whisk it in. Keep whisking until the cheese melts fully, creating a creamy sauce. - Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi Time to add the potato gnocchi! Carefully stir them in, making sure they are all coated with that rich sauce. Let the gnocchi cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. They are done when they float to the top of the sauce. - Step 5: Add the Spinach Gently fold in the chopped spinach now. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. This will help the spinach wilt and mix into your dish. - Step 6: Season to Taste Take a quick taste of your sauce. Add salt and pepper to suit your taste. If you want a thinner sauce, splash in a bit of water and stir until it’s just right. - Step 7: Rest Before Serving Remove the skillet from the heat and cover it. Let it sit for a few minutes. This helps the sauce thicken and the flavors come together beautifully. - Step 8: Garnish and Serve Serve your creamy gnocchi warm. Add fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of color and extra flavor. Enjoy this quick and tasty dish with family or friends! How to achieve the perfect creamy sauce To make a creamy sauce, start with high-fat cream. Use heavy cream for richness. Warm the olive oil before adding garlic. This step builds flavor. Add the sun-dried tomatoes next to enhance the taste. When you pour in the cream, keep stirring. This helps the cheese melt smoothly. Ensuring gnocchi cooks evenly For even cooking, stir the gnocchi gently. Add them to the pot once the sauce simmers. Let them cook until they float. This floating sign means they are done. Keep the heat steady so they cook without sticking. Importance of fresh ingredients Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. Fresh spinach wilts better and adds color. Choose good-quality sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for extra flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan melts more nicely than pre-shredded cheese. How to store leftovers properly Cool any leftovers before storing them. Place the gnocchi in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. Avoid freezing as it can change the texture. Reheating suggestions To reheat, warm the gnocchi on the stove. Add a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Stir gently over medium heat until warm. This helps avoid a dry dish when reheating. {{image_4}} You can switch up the sun-dried tomatoes if you want. Try diced roasted red peppers or fresh tomatoes. These options add different flavors and textures. If you need a dairy-free dish, use coconut cream or almond milk. For cheese, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese. These swaps keep the dish creamy and rich. Want more protein? Add cooked chicken or shrimp. They pair well with the sauce and make the dish heartier. Just cook the protein first, then add it in during the last few minutes. Boost the flavor with fresh herbs. Basil and parsley add a nice touch. You can also use thyme or oregano for extra depth. If you like heat, add red pepper flakes. They bring a kick that contrasts well with the cream. Start with a pinch and add more to taste. This way, you control the spice level. These variations let you customize the creamy sun-dried tomato gnocchi to your taste. When serving creamy sun-dried tomato gnocchi, I love to add bright colors and fresh flavors. Here are my favorite ways to garnish: - Fresh herbs for garnish: A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves adds a nice touch. It gives the dish a pop of color and enhances the flavor. You can also use parsley or chives if you like. - Serving with a side salad or bread: Pair this dish with a light side salad. A simple mix of greens, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette works well. If you prefer bread, a crusty loaf can soak up the creamy sauce. Choosing the right wine can elevate your meal. Here are some wines I recommend to pair with creamy sun-dried tomato gnocchi: - Chardonnay: A chilled Chardonnay brings a buttery flavor that complements the creaminess of the dish. - Pinot Grigio: This light white wine adds a crisp contrast. Its fruity notes balance the rich sauce well. - Light Red Wines: If you prefer red, try a light-bodied wine like Pinot Noir. It adds depth without overpowering the dish. These garnishes and wine pairings enhance your dining experience, making the dish even more enjoyable. Can I use frozen gnocchi instead of fresh or packaged? Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi. Just add them directly to the pot. You may need to cook them a bit longer. Follow the package instructions for timing. How do I know when the gnocchi is done cooking? Gnocchi is done when it floats to the top of the sauce. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge. Cook the gnocchi fresh for the best texture. What can I serve with creamy sun-dried tomato gnocchi? This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread. You could also serve it with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. This blog post explored a creamy sun-dried tomato gnocchi recipe. We covered ingredients, cooking steps, and storage tips. You learned ways to enhance flavors and variations for special diets. Remember, fresh ingredients make a big difference. Experiment with your favorite herbs or add protein for variety. Enjoy this tasty dish with a salad and a good wine. I hope you try this recipe and make it your own!

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi (One Pot)

Indulge in a bowl of creamy sun-dried tomato gnocchi that’s bursting with flavor! This delicious recipe combines fluffy gnocchi with a rich cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach for a satisfying meal in just 25 minutes. Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressive date night, it’s easy to make and even easier to love. Click to explore this simple yet decadent recipe and bring it to your kitchen today!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound potato gnocchi (fresh or packaged)

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably in oil for enhanced flavor)

2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Heat the Oil: In a large pot or deep skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring continuously, until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden.

    Incorporate the Tomatoes: Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and the Italian seasoning to the pot. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently to develop the flavors and aroma.

      Create the Sauce: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, increasing the heat slightly until the mixture reaches a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and whisk continuously until the cheese melts completely, resulting in a rich and creamy sauce.

        Cook the Gnocchi: Add the potato gnocchi to the pot, carefully stirring to ensure each piece is coated in the sauce. Allow the gnocchi to cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they float to the surface, indicating they are tender and ready.

          Add the Spinach: Gently fold in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the spinach wilts down and is incorporated into the dish.

            Season to Taste: Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a splash of water and stir until you reach the desired consistency.

              Rest Before Serving: Remove the skillet from the heat and cover it for a couple of minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken further and the flavors to meld beautifully.

                Garnish and Serve: Serve the creamy gnocchi warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves on top for a vibrant finish and an aromatic touch.

                  Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4