Description
This Creamy Lemon Pesto Gnocchi with Broccoli recipe offers a luscious, comforting dish that combines fluffy potato gnocchi with tender broccoli in a velvety lemon-infused pesto cream sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this Italian-inspired meal balances rich flavors with fresh citrus brightness and a hint of spice, garnished with Parmesan and fresh basil for an elegant touch.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil or lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2–3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove the broccoli and set aside.
- Cook the Gnocchi: In the same pot of boiling water, add the potato gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
- Add Pesto and Cream: Stir in the pesto and heavy cream, then add the lemon zest and juice. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring to combine the flavors well.
- Toss Gnocchi and Broccoli in Sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat evenly in the creamy pesto sauce.
- Finish the Dish: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and everything to heat through.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the gnocchi warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves or extra lemon zest and lemon wedges for added brightness.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free pesto.
- You can replace broccoli with spinach or peas for a different green vegetable.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp to boost protein content for a more filling meal.
- Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently to avoid overcooking the gnocchi.
