Spinach Gnocchi
Spinach Gnocchi offers a creamy, flavorful twist on traditional potato gnocchi by incorporating fresh spinach, resulting in a soft, pillowy texture combined with vibrant color and added nutrition. This comforting dish is simple to prepare, versatile in flavor pairing, and perfect for families seeking a healthy yet indulgent pasta meal.
- Author: Barbara
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free (if using gluten-free flour)
Main Ingredients
- 500g potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold recommended)
- 200g fresh spinach, cooked, drained and finely chopped
- 1 egg yolk
- 100g all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
- 50g grated Parmesan cheese (or ricotta/pecorino for variation)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Prepare the Spinach and Potatoes: Boil the whole potatoes until tender. Allow them to cool slightly. Meanwhile, blanch the fresh spinach quickly in boiling water, drain thoroughly, and finely chop to remove all excess moisture.
- Make the Dough: Peel and mash the cooled potatoes until smooth. In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, chopped spinach, egg yolk, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Gradually add flour and mix gently until a soft, non-sticky dough forms.
- Shape the Gnocchi: Divide the dough into smaller portions. Roll each portion into long ropes about 1 inch thick. Cut into bite-sized pieces, then gently press each piece with a fork to create traditional gnocchi ridges.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi in batches. Once the gnocchi float to the surface, continue cooking for one more minute. Remove with a slotted spoon.
- Serve with Sauce: Toss the cooked gnocchi in your favorite sauce, such as butter sage, creamy Alfredo, or tomato basil, and serve warm.
Notes
- Drain the spinach thoroughly to avoid watery dough.
- Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for best texture.
- Do not overwork the dough; mix just until combined for tender gnocchi.
- Lightly dust surfaces and hands with flour to prevent sticking during shaping.
- Cook gnocchi in small batches to avoid overcrowding and sticking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 150g)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Spinach Gnocchi, Vegetarian Pasta, Homemade Gnocchi, Gluten Free Option, Comfort Food, Italian Cuisine