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Fresh Creamy Pesto Gnocchi Recipe Easy with Juicy Cherry Tomatoes

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A quick and satisfying dish featuring pillowy gnocchi tossed in a creamy basil pesto sauce with juicy cherry tomatoes, perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) fresh or store-bought potato gnocchi
  • 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup (120ml) fresh basil pesto
  • ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup (25g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to scoop them out and drain well.
  2. While the gnocchi cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften slightly but still hold their shape.
  4. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and pesto sauce. Mix gently until the sauce is creamy and evenly coats the tomatoes. Avoid overheating to keep the pesto vibrant and the cream from boiling.
  5. Add the drained gnocchi to the skillet. Toss softly with the sauce, ensuring each gnocchi is coated. Heat through for another 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of reserved pasta water or cream if the sauce is too thick.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting carefully as pesto and Parmesan add saltiness.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese if using.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Notes

Keep heat moderate to avoid breaking the cream or dulling the pesto’s color. Gently fold gnocchi with sauce to preserve texture. Use ripe cherry tomatoes for best flavor. For dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan with nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

Keywords: pesto gnocchi, creamy pesto, cherry tomatoes, quick dinner, easy gnocchi recipe, vegetarian, Italian pasta

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/fresh-creamy-pesto-gnocchi-recipe-easy-with-juicy-cherry-tomatoes/