Ther’s something undeniably comforting about tender, pillowy gnocchi melting in your mouth, and when paired with the vibrant earthiness of fresh spinach and the creamy richness of ricotta, it transforms into a culinary masterpiece. wholesome Fresh Spinach & Ricotta Gnocchi is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of simple, nourishing ingredients that come together to create a flavorful delight. In this article, we’ll explore the art of crafting these delicate Italian dumplings from scratch, uncover tips for perfecting their texture, and reveal how this wholesome comfort food can brighten your weeknight dinners or impress at your next gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, prepare to fall in love with a recipe that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.
Wholesome fresh spinach & ricotta gnocchi offer a marvelous blend of nutrition and comfort, transforming humble ingredients into a dish that’s both elegant and satisfying. Rooted in traditional Italian cuisine, this dish combines the vibrant earthiness of spinach with the creamy richness of ricotta, creating pillowy gnocchi that melt delightfully on the palate. The delicate balance of flavors and textures makes it a standout favorite, perfect for busy weeknights or impressive weekend feasts.
Prep and Cook Time
- Readiness: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 10 minutes
- total Time: 30 minutes
Yield
Serves 4 generously.
Difficulty Level
Medium – beginner cooks with basic dough skills will find this approachable with a little patience.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh baby spinach leaves, washed and chopped
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese, well drained
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted (plus extra for dusting)
- ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp freshly grated nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for sautéing)
- Fresh sage leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the spinach: gently wilt the chopped spinach in a skillet over medium heat until just softened, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a fine sieve and press out all excess moisture. let cool completely.
- Combine ricotta and spinach: In a mixing bowl, fold together the ricotta, squeezed spinach, beaten egg, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until fully incorporated.
- add flour: Gradually add the sifted flour, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix-stop as soon as the dough holds together but remains tender.
- Shape the gnocchi: Lightly flour your work surface. Divide dough into 4 portions. Roll each into a long, ¾-inch thick rope. Using a floured knife, cut ropes into 1-inch pieces. For the classic ridged texture, gently roll each piece over the back of a fork.
- Cook the gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi in batches (~12 pieces) until they float to the surface,about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside on a warm plate.
- Finish with butter and sage: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add fresh sage leaves and sauté gently until fragrant and the butter turns golden, about 3 minutes. Toss cooked gnocchi in this sage butter until lightly crisp and coated.
- Serve promptly: Plate your gnocchi with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper.
Tips for Success
- Moisture control: Ensuring the spinach is well-drained prevents soggy dough and heavy gnocchi. Use a kitchen towel or fine mesh sieve to squeeze out liquid thoroughly.
- Dough texture: Aim for soft, slightly sticky dough-resist the urge to add too much flour as this will make gnocchi dense.
- Make ahead: Gnocchi can be frozen raw on a parchment-lined tray and then transferred to a freezer bag. Cook straight from frozen, adding an extra minute to boiling time.
- Choice flours: For gluten-free gnocchi, experiment with a blend of rice and tapioca flours, though texture will vary.
- Flavor notes: Incorporate different herbs like thyme or add lemon zest for a fresh twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your wholesome fresh spinach & ricotta gnocchi tossed in the nutty sage butter, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. accompany the dish with a crisp green salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a heartier meal, pair with roasted cherry tomatoes or a rich tomato basil sauce. A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or light Italian white wine elevates the dining experience beautifully.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 14 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
For more wholesome Italian recipes, check out Rustic Tomato Focaccia with Rosemary. To understand the health benefits of spinach, visit Healthline’s Spinach Nutrition Guide.
Q&A
Q&A: Wholesome Fresh Spinach & Ricotta Gnocchi – A Flavorful Delight
Q1: What makes spinach and ricotta gnocchi a wholesome dish?
A1: Spinach and ricotta gnocchi blend the nourishing qualities of fresh leafy greens with the creamy richness of ricotta cheese. Spinach floods the dish with vitamins A, C, and iron, while ricotta adds protein and calcium, making every fluffy bite both satisfying and nutritious. Together, they create a meal that’s balanced, light, and bursting with natural goodness.
Q2: How does fresh spinach enhance the flavor and texture of gnocchi?
A2: Fresh spinach injects vibrant color and a gentle earthiness into the gnocchi, cutting through the mild sweetness of ricotta. Its tender leaves, finely chopped and folded into the dough, lend subtle vegetal notes and a tender crumb that elevates the traditional gnocchi experience from simple potato dumplings to elegant bites full of character.
Q3: Why choose ricotta over other cheeses in this recipe?
A3: Ricotta’s delicate creaminess and slightly sweet undertone perfectly complement spinach without overpowering it. Unlike sharper cheeses,ricotta melts effortlessly into the dough,ensuring a light,pillowy gnocchi that’s moist but not heavy. It’s the secret ingredient that infuses richness while keeping the texture soft and melt-in-your-mouth.
Q4: What’s the ideal way to cook and serve spinach and ricotta gnocchi?
A4: After gently boiling the gnocchi until they float to the surface, they’re best tossed in a simple butter and sage sauce or a light garlic-infused olive oil. This approach highlights their delicate flavors rather than masking them. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper to add a final flavorful flourish.
Q5: Can spinach and ricotta gnocchi be made ahead or frozen?
A5: Absolutely! You can prepare the gnocchi dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. For freezing, shape the gnocchi and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer; once frozen, transfer them to airtight bags.When ready to cook, just drop the frozen gnocchi directly into boiling water-no thawing required-making this wholesome delight convenient for busy days.
Q6: How can beginners master the perfect gnocchi dough with spinach and ricotta?
A6: The key is balance and gentleness. Use well-drained spinach to avoid soggy dough and handle it delicately when mixing with ricotta and flour. Don’t overwork the dough-light kneading creates tender gnocchi rather than tough lumps. Patience in forming uniform pieces ensures even cooking and that classic, pillowy texture we all crave.
Q7: What makes spinach and ricotta gnocchi stand out among other gnocchi variations?
A7: It’s the fusion of freshness and creaminess that elevates this version. Unlike potato gnocchi,this recipe is lighter but no less satisfying. The vibrant green specks of spinach nestled in soft ricotta dough create a visually appealing dish that’s equally a feast for the eyes and the palate-a true flavorful delight that feels both wholesome and indulgent.
Closing Remarks
In the world of comfort food, few dishes manage to blend nourishment and indulgence as effortlessly as these Wholesome Fresh Spinach & Ricotta Gnocchi. Each tender pillow bursts with the vibrant earthiness of spinach and the creamy richness of ricotta, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate. Whether served with a simple sage butter sauce or a robust tomato ragù, this gnocchi recipe invites you to savor the harmony of freshness and tradition. Embracing this dish is more than just a meal-it’s a celebration of wholesome ingredients transforming into a flavorful delight that comforts the soul and delights the senses.So next time you crave something both hearty and healthy, let these gnocchi remind you that wholesome can be wonderfully indulgent.
