Romantic Spinach and Parmesan Gnocchi

Name: Romantic Spinach and Parmesan Gnocchi
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 egg; 1 cup cooked spinach, squeezed and chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Inspired Cooking

When it comes to a cozy dinner for two, nothing beats a plate of creamy gnocchi. I recently discovered the perfect combination of flavors with this Romantic Spinach and Parmesan Gnocchi recipe. The rich, cheesy goodness paired with the freshness of spinach creates a dish that's not only comforting but also elegant. Every bite feels like a warm hug, making it ideal for a special occasion or an intimate weeknight dinner. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Willow Harries

Last updated on 2026-01-11T20:09:35.134Z

My journey with gnocchi began when I attempted it for the first time at home. I wanted something special and was fascinated by how light and fluffy they could be. Through trial and error, I've learned that using just the right amount of flour is key to achieving that dreamy texture. With this Romantic Spinach and Parmesan Gnocchi, I've managed to elevate my dish with the vibrant essence of freshly sautéed spinach and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

The method I've perfected infuses the sauce with a delightful creaminess that clings beautifully to the gnocchi. One particular tip I must share is to always cook the gnocchi in boiling water until they float – that's when they're perfectly done! It's these small details that make a world of difference in flavor and presentation.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy Parmesan sauce that envelops each gnocchi
Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition
Perfect for a romantic dinner at home

      

The Art of Making Gnocchi

Making gnocchi from scratch is a rewarding process that involves a few crucial steps. When combining the ingredients, make sure your ricotta cheese is well-drained to avoid excess moisture, which can lead to a sticky dough. After mixing the ingredients, knead the dough gently until it's smooth. Over-kneading can result in tough gnocchi, so aim for a soft consistency that holds together without being overly dense.

Cutting the dough into uniform pieces ensures even cooking. Roll the dough into ropes about ¾-inch thick and slice them into 1-inch pieces. For a traditional touch, you might consider rolling each piece over the tines of a fork or a gnocchi board to create those classic ridges, which help the sauce cling beautifully.

Elevating the Creamy Sauce

The sauce for this gnocchi is rich and luxurious, thanks to the combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. When simmering the cream, keep the heat at medium to prevent it from boiling too vigorously, which can cause separation. You want a gentle simmer that thickens the cream while maintaining a glossy texture.

Don't hesitate to adjust the seasoning once the Parmesan is added. Some cheeses are saltier than others, so taste before adding additional salt or pepper. If you're looking to enhance the flavor further, a pinch of nutmeg can add warmth, or you might swap out olive oil for a flavored oil, like garlic-infused oil, to give the dish a different depth.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your delectable gnocchi:

For the Gnocchi

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 egg
1 cup cooked spinach, squeezed and chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Make sure to have all ingredients handy before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Romantic Spinach and Parmesan Gnocchi:

Prepare the Gnocchi Dough

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, chopped spinach, salt, and pepper. Gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms. Knead gently on a floured surface until smooth. Roll the dough into long ropes and cut into small pieces.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the gnocchi into the boiling water. Cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce and gently toss to coat. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Enjoy your romantic dinner!

Pro Tips

To elevate the flavors, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce. This adds warmth and enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This Romantic Spinach and Parmesan Gnocchi can be accompanied by a simple side salad or roasted vegetables to balance its richness. A light arugula salad with a vinaigrette can add a wonderful contrast to the creamy dish. You could also serve it with garlic bread for a more indulgent experience, perfect for sharing over candlelight.

For a special touch, sprinkle extra Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper on top before serving. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors, especially if enjoyed with your favorite white wine, enhancing the dining experience.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover gnocchi, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. If you’re making the gnocchi in advance, consider freezing them before cooking. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze, then transfer to a zip-lock bag. They will last well for about a month; just cook them straight from the freezer when you’re ready.

To reheat the gnocchi, you can either gently boil them or quickly sauté them in a pan with some sauce to bring back their original texture. Be careful not to overcook, as gnocchi can become mushy if reheated too long. Enjoy delicious leftovers just as much as the first serving!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the gnocchi ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the gnocchi and freeze them before cooking. Just make sure to flour them well to prevent sticking.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese can be used as a substitute, but it might result in a slightly different texture.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

You can use vegan ricotta and replace the egg with a flax egg, although the texture might differ slightly.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream.