Spinach Gnocchis
Delicate spinach gnocchis feature fresh greens and cheesy richness, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal that appeals to both vegetarians and cheese lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat 1/4 inch of water in a large saucepan over high heat until boiling.
- Cook the spinach, tossing quickly until wilted, about 1 minute.
- Drain the spinach and allow to cool slightly; squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
- Chop the spinach very finely and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt 7 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add minced onion and cook until translucent.
- Add minced prosciutto and cook until lightly browned.
- In a bowl, lightly beat the ricotta cheese and mix with the chopped spinach.
- Add the beaten egg, grated Parmesan, grated Pecorino Romano, and all-purpose flour to the mixture.
- Gently combine until a soft dough forms.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Form the dough into small gnocchi shapes and cook in the boiling water until they float, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the gnocchis with a slotted spoon and serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the dough mixture. For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour. Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid from the spinach as possible to prevent the gnocchi from becoming too wet. Fresh spinach works best, but you can also use frozen spinach if necessary.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the gnocchi warm, topped with a simple brown butter sauce or your favorite marinara. They pair beautifully with a fresh Tomato, Mozzarella And Basil Salad for a complete meal. For an Italian twist, drizzle with Green Sauce For Pasta or enjoy alongside a slice of Fergosa (Italian Bread) for a delightful dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently sauté them in a skillet with a little butter or olive oil until warmed through. Alternatively, you can boil them briefly in salted water to restore their original texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Gnocchis contains roughly 1226 calories, with 22g protein, 210g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (44% of the Daily Value), calcium (42% of the Daily Value), and iron (35% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2277mg per serving (99% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze spinach gnocchi?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked gnocchi. After shaping them, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen; just add a minute or two to the cooking time.
What can I serve with spinach gnocchi?
Spinach gnocchi pairs well with various sauces, including sage brown butter, marinara, or a creamy Alfredo. Consider serving with sautéed vegetables or alongside a light salad for a refreshing contrast.
How do I know when the gnocchi are cooked?
Gnocchi are done when they float to the surface of the boiling water. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Once they rise, let them cook for an additional minute before removing them with a slotted spoon.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).