Creamy Spinach Feta Gnocchi Easy Weeknight Meal

Craving a quick, tasty meal? You’re in the right place! My Creamy Spinach Feta Gnocchi is a simple dish packed with flavor. In just a few easy steps, you’ll create a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy nights. With fresh spinach and feta, it's a delightful twist on classic gnocchi. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!

Ingredients

Required Ingredients

- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi

- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

- 1 cup heavy cream

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon lemon zest

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

- Fresh parsley, for garnish

You need simple, fresh ingredients for this creamy spinach feta gnocchi. Start with potato gnocchi, which gives a soft base. Spinach adds color and nutrients. Feta cheese brings a salty bite. Heavy cream makes everything rich and velvety. Olive oil and garlic create a tasty foundation. Lemon zest adds brightness, while salt and pepper bring balance. If you like spice, add red pepper flakes. Fresh parsley serves as a lovely garnish.

Gather these items before you start cooking. This way, you will have everything at hand. It makes the cooking process smoother and more fun. Enjoy the burst of flavors as you create this dish!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Gnocchi

First, fill a large pot with salted water. Bring it to a boil. Add the potato gnocchi. Cook them until they float, which takes about 2-3 minutes. This means they are done! Be careful not to overcook them. Drain the gnocchi and set them aside for now.

Sautéing Garlic and Spinach

Next, grab a large skillet. Heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté it for about one minute until it smells great. Then, add the chopped spinach. Cook it for 2-3 minutes until it wilts down nicely.

Creating the Creamy Sauce

Now, pour in the heavy cream. Bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes. Let the sauce cook for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Combining with Gnocchi

Gently add the cooked gnocchi to the creamy sauce. Toss them well to coat each gnocchi in the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the dish warm in shallow bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra feta on top to make it look nice. Enjoy your creamy spinach feta gnocchi!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Gnocchi

To get the best gnocchi, avoid overcooking. Boil them until they float, usually 2-3 minutes. This step keeps them soft and fluffy. After boiling, drain them right away to stop cooking.

For the sauce, a creamy texture is key. When you add the heavy cream, let it simmer gently. Stir it often to mix in the feta well. This helps thicken the sauce and makes it rich. You want it smooth but not too thick.

Enhancing Flavor

To boost the taste, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme. They bring a nice zing to the dish. A pinch of nutmeg can also add warmth.

For a burst of freshness, squeeze some lemon juice over the dish just before serving. This brightens the flavors and makes each bite pop. You can also add cherry tomatoes for a sweet touch.

Serving and Presentation

For a lovely presentation, serve the dish in shallow bowls. This shows off the creamy sauce and bright spinach.

Garnishing is vital for that restaurant-style look. Use fresh parsley for color and a sprinkle of extra feta on top. This makes your gnocchi not just tasty, but beautiful too.

Variations

Adding Proteins

You can easily boost the dish with protein. Adding chicken or shrimp works well. Cook the protein separately, then toss it with the gnocchi and sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try adding chickpeas. They add a nice texture and protein punch.

Gluten-Free Alternatives

If you need a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free gnocchi. Many brands offer tasty options made from rice or other grains. You can also try cooking zucchini noodles for a lighter twist. They add a fresh taste and keep the dish low-carb.

Flavoring Options

Feel free to get creative with flavors. Different cheeses can change the taste. Try goat cheese for a tangy kick or mozzarella for a creamy melt. You can also swap spinach for other greens. Kale or arugula can add a new taste and some extra nutrients.

Storage Info

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container. This helps keep the dish fresh. Place it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. Consume it within 3 days for the best taste.

Freezing Techniques

You can freeze this dish for later use. Allow it to cool completely before freezing. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you are ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it in a skillet over low heat until warm. You might need to add a splash of cream to restore the sauce.

Shelf Life

In the fridge, you can keep it for 3 days. In the freezer, it lasts for about 3 months. Watch for signs of spoilage, like a sour smell or change in color. If it looks off, it’s best to toss it out.

FAQs

How long do I need to cook gnocchi?

To cook gnocchi, boil it in salted water for 2-3 minutes. Gnocchi is ready when it floats. This quick cooking time ensures it stays soft and tender. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach! It saves time and is easy to store. However, frozen spinach may release more water. This can make your dish a bit watery. To counter this, make sure to drain it well before adding it to the sauce.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you want a different taste, try goat cheese or ricotta. These cheeses offer a similar creamy texture but with unique flavors. For dairy-free options, use tofu or a nut-based cheese. Adjust the amount to fit your taste.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Creamy spinach feta gnocchi is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently on the stove when ready to eat. This dish keeps well and still tastes great.

This blog post outlined a delicious creamy gnocchi dish with fresh spinach and feta. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and helpful tips. I shared variations for proteins and diet needs, plus storage info to keep your dish fresh. Enjoy creating this meal for yourself or others. With its simple steps and rich flavor, it’s sure to impress. Happy cooking!