Pesto and Lemon Gnocchi
Bright, zesty, and irresistibly creamy, this Pesto and Lemon Gnocchi recipe is a quick and flavorful choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Fluffy potato gnocchi are tossed in a vibrant homemade pesto made with fresh basil, parmesan, pine nuts, and a hint of garlic, then elevated with fresh lemon juice and zest for a citrusy twist that brings the dish to life. A touch of reserved pasta water ensures a silky, perfectly balanced sauce that clings to every tender bite. Finished with a light sauté for added texture and garnished with extra parmesan and basil, this dish is a delightful fusion of Italian comfort and refreshing flavors. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s both a time-saver and a showstopper. Perfect for busy nights but elegant enough for entertaining!
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Ingredients
- 500 g gnocchi
- 50 g fresh basil leaves
- 50 g parmesan cheese, grated
- 30 g pine nuts
- 1 whole garlic clove
- 6 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 whole lemon lemon zest
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.25 cup reserved pasta water
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for cooking the gnocchi later.
Step 2
To make the pesto, combine fresh basil leaves, grated parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, and 5 tablespoons of olive oil in a food processor or blender. Pulse until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
Step 3
Add the lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to the pesto mixture. Blend again until incorporated. Set the pesto aside.
Step 4
Cook the gnocchi in the boiling water until they float to the surface, which usually takes 2-3 minutes. Reserve 1/4 cup of the cooking water before draining the gnocchi.
Step 5
In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the drained gnocchi and sauté for 2-3 minutes to lightly brown them.
Step 6
Reduce the heat to low. Add the prepared pesto and the reserved pasta water to the gnocchi. Stir gently to coat the gnocchi evenly in the sauce.
Step 7
Add the zest of one lemon and toss to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper, if needed.
Step 8
Serve the pesto and lemon gnocchi hot, garnished with extra parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (817.1g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1833.4 |
| Total Fat 148.7g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 39.8g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 11.5g | |
| Cholesterol 140mg | 0% |
| Sodium 4610.0mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 98.2g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 9.7g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 6.9g | |
| Protein 39.0g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 40IU | 0% |
| Calcium 772.1mg | 0% |
| Iron 8.3mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1153.0mg | 0% |
Source of Calories