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 all-purpose flour; 1 egg; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons butter; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Ideas

I absolutely love making gnocchi, especially when it comes to this romantic spinach and parmesan version. The creamy texture of the sauce combined with the tender gnocchi is pure bliss. I often make this dish for special occasions, as it’s both elegant and comforting. Each bite delivers a punch of flavor that’s perfect for a cozy dinner date or a night spent with close friends. If you've never tried making gnocchi from scratch, this recipe is a fantastic starting point that will impress everyone at the table!

Created by

Marnie Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:16:36.931Z

When I first tried my hand at making gnocchi, I was amazed at how simple yet rewarding the process turned out to be. Using fresh spinach adds not only a vibrant color but also a delightful twist to the traditional recipe. Cooking the spinach just right is key, ensuring it integrates seamlessly into the dough without becoming watery.

One tip I’ve learned over the years is to always taste the dough before cooking. The seasoning you add will significantly impact the overall flavor, and it’s easy to adjust while the dough is still pliable. This small step can take your gnocchi from good to absolutely delicious!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Unique twist on classic gnocchi with fresh spinach
Rich, creamy parmesan sauce that complements the dish perfectly
Ideal for a romantic dinner or special gathering

      

Ingredient Insights

The star of this gnocchi is the fresh spinach, which not only adds a vibrant color but also infuses the dish with nutrients. I recommend using young spinach leaves for a milder flavor. If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can substitute with frozen spinach, but be sure to thoroughly drain it before adding to your mixture. This ensures the dough maintains the right texture without becoming soggy.

Ricotta cheese is crucial for achieving the desired creaminess in the gnocchi. Opt for whole milk ricotta for the best results, as it adds richness and moisture. If you're looking for a lighter version, part-skim ricotta can be used, but you'll need to adjust the amount of flour to maintain the dough consistency. Remember, a well-balanced dough should be soft to the touch but not overly sticky.

Perfecting Your Technique

When rolling the gnocchi dough into ropes, aim for a thickness of about half an inch. If the gnocchi are too thick, they may not cook evenly, leading to some being gummy while others remain firm. An easy trick is to use a bench scraper to cut your dough into uniform pieces for even cooking. If this is your first time, don’t worry if they aren’t perfectly shaped; the fork prongs will help create traditional ridges.

Cooking the gnocchi in salted boiling water is key to ensuring they’re seasoned throughout. As soon as they float, they are ready; be careful not to overcrowd the pot, as this can lead to uneven cooking. I recommend cooking in batches if you’ve made a large quantity. Once cooked, let them rest briefly on a towel to absorb excess moisture before adding them to the sauce.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious meal:

Ingredients for Gnocchi

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 egg
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Ingredients for Parmesan Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons butter
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your romantic meal:

Make the Gnocchi

In a large bowl, combine chopped spinach, ricotta, and egg. Mix well. Gradually add flour until the dough is soft but not sticky. Season with salt and pepper. Roll the dough into long ropes and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Press each piece slightly with a fork for texture.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the gnocchi; cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Combine and Serve

Add cooked gnocchi to the sauce, gently stirring to coat. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately for a delightful presentation.

Enjoy this comforting dish with a side salad or crusty bread.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can incorporate some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hint of heat.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Leftover gnocchi can be refrigerated for up to two days in an airtight container. To reheat, I suggest quickly sautéing them in a bit of butter over medium heat until they are warmed through. For longer storage, freeze uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can go directly from the freezer into boiling water for a quick meal in about 4-5 minutes.

For the sauce, if you anticipate making this dish ahead of time, prepare the Parmesan sauce without heating it. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, gently warm the sauce on low heat while stirring in a splash of cream to reinvigorate its glossy texture.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the dish, consider pairing the Romantic Spinach and Parmesan Gnocchi with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The acidity from the vinaigrette will balance the creaminess of the sauce perfectly. Additionally, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can introduce a pleasant heat, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

If you want to make this dish even more impressive, consider topping with toasted pine nuts or walnuts just before serving. This not only adds a crunchy texture contrast but also enriches the dish with nutty flavors. A light drizzle of truffle oil can also take the flavor to the next level, making it truly special for a romantic dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach, just be sure to thaw and drain it well before use.

→ How can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the gnocchi and sauce separately, then combine and cook before serving.

→ What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are good alternatives.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can use a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.