Romantic Spinach and Parmesan Gnocchi

Name: Romantic Spinach and Parmesan Gnocchi
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cups all-purpose flour; Salt to taste; Pinch of nutmeg; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Collection

I absolutely love making Romantic Spinach and Parmesan Gnocchi. The process is not only enjoyable, but the end result is a creamy, luscious dish that feels special. Each bite of these tender gnocchi is infused with the freshness of spinach and the rich flavor of Parmesan. This recipe combines simple ingredients with a touch of elegance, making it perfect for date nights or cozy dinners. I promise, it'll impress anyone you share it with!

Created by

Elodie March

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:21:34.773Z

Making Romantic Spinach and Parmesan Gnocchi has become a cherished ritual in our home. I remember the first time I attempted it; I was pleasantly surprised by how easily the gnocchi came together with just a few ingredients. The interplay of fresh spinach and velvety Parmesan creates a depth of flavor that is hard to resist.

As I perfected the recipe, adding a dash of nutmeg transformed the dish into something truly special. I often serve it with a light creamy sauce that complements the gnocchi perfectly, enhancing its romantic essence. It’s a dish I love to share with close friends and special someone!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Delicate gnocchi texture that melts in your mouth
Flavorful combination of fresh spinach and rich Parmesan
Perfect for intimate dinners or special occasions

      

Mastering Gnocchi Texture

Achieving the perfect gnocchi texture is vital for this dish. When mixing the dough, it's essential to avoid overworking it to keep the gnocchi light and airy. The dough should be soft but not sticky; if it's too wet, gradually add a little more flour until it reaches the right consistency. I recommend using a bench scraper to handle the dough, which helps keep your work surface clean and allows for easy cutting of the gnocchi pieces.

After shaping the gnocchi, use a fork to create grooves on one side. This step is not just for decoration; the grooves help the sauce cling better to each piece, enhancing the overall flavor in every bite. You want to see a smooth texture with distinct ridges, which will capture the creamy sauce beautifully.

The Creamy Sauce

The sauce for this gnocchi is crucial in elevating the dish's sophistication. When you simmer the heavy cream, do so over medium heat to avoid scorching. You want the cream to gently bubble, becoming slightly thicker and glossy. Stir it frequently to ensure even cooking and to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan, which can lead to a burnt flavor.

Incorporating the grated Parmesan into the sauce should be done gradually. Add a bit at a time while stirring to allow the cheese to melt uniformly and create a luscious sauce. If you find the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a splash of pasta cooking water or extra cream, ensuring it maintains its creamy consistency.

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cups all-purpose flour
Salt to taste
Pinch of nutmeg

For the Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Feel free to substitute the spinach with other greens like kale or Swiss chard for different flavors!

Instructions

Prepare the Gnocchi Dough

In a large bowl, combine chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, egg, and a pinch of nutmeg. Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms. Add salt to taste.

Shape the Gnocchi

Divide the dough into four sections. Roll each section into a long rope, then cut into bite-sized pieces. Use a fork to gently press down on each piece to create grooves.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi in batches until they float, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in grated Parmesan, and season with salt and pepper.

Combine and Serve

Gently toss the cooked gnocchi in the sauce until evenly coated. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan.

For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or garlic to the sauce.

Pro Tips

Always taste the gnocchi while cooking to ensure they have a light and fluffy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a lighter alternative to ricotta, you can substitute it with cottage cheese. Just make sure to blend it well to achieve a smooth texture. Also, for those who are lactose intolerant, consider using vegan cheese options or omitting cheese altogether. To maintain flavor, you might enhance the dish with nutritional yeast or lemon zest for a fresh zing.

For the spinach, you could swap in other greens like Swiss chard or kale. Be sure to sauté any tougher greens beforehand to soften them before adding to the dough, which will yield a similar texture and flavor but provide unique taste variations.

Storing and Reheating Gnocchi

If you plan to make the dish in advance, you can store the uncooked gnocchi in the freezer. Lay them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are not touching, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight bag. When you're ready to cook, there's no need to thaw; just drop them into boiling water directly from the freezer. This helps retain their shape and texture.

To reheat leftover gnocchi, sauté them lightly in a pan with a bit of olive oil. This method can restore some of their original texture while ensuring they are heated through. If you have leftover sauce, add it to the pan while cooking the gnocchi for a delicious combination of flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture.

→ What type of flour is best for gnocchi?

All-purpose flour works well, but you can also use a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.

→ How can I store leftover gnocchi?

Store leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also freeze uncooked gnocchi.

→ Can I make gnocchi ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the gnocchi dough in advance and refrigerate it for a few hours before cooking.