Creamy Lemony Ricotta Spinach Gnocchi
Soft gnocchi tossed in a creamy lemon ricotta sauce with spinach.
—Ingredients—
2 tablespoon Olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium size Onion (chop)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1LB Fresh spinach
1/2 teaspoon Salt or to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes or to taste
2 cups Ricotta
1 cup heavy cream
1 Lemon (zest + juice)
2LB Gnocchi (boil according package instructions)
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
—Garnish—
Parmesan cheese
Chili flakes
lemon zest
1. In a large skillet or pan, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat until melted.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
4. Add the fresh spinach Stir until wilts down.
5. Add salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes.
6. Lower the heat to medium-low. Add in the ricotta and stir until mixed in. Pour in the heavy cream and stir again.
7. Next Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
8. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions.
9. Add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce. Toss gently to coat.
10. Sprinkle in ½ cup Parmesan cheese and gently stir until melted and glossy.
11. Serve warm and garnish with Extra Parmesan, chili flakes, lemon zest and enjoy!
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If you're looking for a delightful, comforting dish that's quick to prepare, this creamy lemony ricotta spinach gnocchi is a fantastic choice. The combination of ricotta and heavy cream creates a luscious, velvety sauce that perfectly complements the pillowy softness of gnocchi. Adding fresh spinach not only boosts the flavor with a subtle earthiness but also adds a nutritious touch rich in iron and vitamins. When preparing the sauce, using both olive oil and unsalted butter lends a balanced richness and depth of flavor. Cooking the onions until they're soft and translucent ensures a mild sweetness that enhances the overall dish without overpowering it. The minced garlic adds just the right hint of aromatic pungency. For the lemon element, using both zest and juice brightens the creamy base and balances the richness. Zesting the lemon first releases the essential oils that provide an intense citrus note, while the juice adds a fresh tanginess that cuts through the cream. To elevate the dish further, seasoning is essential. Salt and pepper are basics, but adding red chili flakes introduces a gentle heat that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce and fresh spinach. If you prefer less spice, you can reduce or omit the chili flakes. Cooking the gnocchi according to package instructions guarantees the ideal texture — tender and soft but not mushy. Tossing the gnocchi gently into the sauce helps it absorb flavors and become glossy with the melted Parmesan cheese. For garnishing, extra Parmesan cheese adds a sharp, nutty finish, more chili flakes offer a kick for spice lovers, and additional lemon zest provides a refreshing citrus aroma. This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or steamed vegetables, making it a well-rounded meal. From my personal experience, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something special but don't have hours to cook. The creamy lemon ricotta sauce elevates simple gnocchi to a restaurant-quality meal. It's also great for leftovers, as the flavors deepen after a day, and reheating is easy and quick. Overall, this recipe is a go-to for anyone craving a rich yet fresh pasta dish with a healthy green twist.
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