Gnocchi di Spinaci Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

Quick Meal Facts

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Time to Stand: 10 minutes (for resting the dough)
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Ease of Cooking: Easy
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 250 calories per serving
• Cost of Ingredients: $10–$15 (varies by location)
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main dish or side
• Equipment Needed: Mixing bowl, fork, pot, potato masher, knife, baking sheet, parchment paper

Check out the right types of equipment for making spinach gnocchi here 

Ingredients

• For the Gnocchi:
  • 1 pound fresh spinach (or 10 ounces frozen spinach)
  • 1 pound ricotta cheese (drained if wet)
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
• For Serving:
  • Olive oil or melted butter
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh herbs (like basil or parsley, optional)

Check out the right Ingredient for making spinach gnocchi here 

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

1. Cook Fresh Spinach: If using fresh spinach, wash and place it in a large pot over medium heat. Stir until wilted (about 3-4 minutes). Drain, cool slightly, and chop finely.
2. Use Frozen Spinach: If using frozen spinach, thaw it and squeeze out excess water using a clean kitchen towel.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, and egg. Mix until well combined.
2. Gradually add flour, salt, and nutmeg (if using). Stir until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour until manageable. Aim for a dough that is slightly tacky but not overly sticky.

Step 3: Shape the Gnocchi

1. Dust a clean surface with flour. Divide the dough into quarters for easier handling.
2. Roll each quarter into a rope about ½ inch thick.
3. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces. Optionally, you can roll each piece over the back of a fork to create ridges, which help hold sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil.
2. Carefully add the gnocchi to the boiling water in batches (do not overcrowd). When they float to the surface, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
3. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Serve

1. Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter and toss gently.
2. Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.

Variations

• Herb-Infused Gnocchi: Add chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the dough for extra flavor.
• Sweet Potato Gnocchi: Substitute half of the ricotta with cooked and mashed sweet potatoes for a sweet twist.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free flour blends instead of all-purpose flour.

Tips and Substitutions

• Cheese Alternatives: If lactose intolerant, use dairy-free ricotta.
• Egg-Free Option: Substitute the egg with 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water (let sit for 5 minutes until gel-like).
• Storage: Gnocchi can be frozen before cooking. Place them on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag.

Check out the right Ingredient for making spinach gnocchi here 

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 11g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1g

Troubleshooting Tips

• Dough Too Sticky: If your dough is too sticky, add a little more flour while mixing.
• Gnocchi Falling Apart: Make sure the water isn’t boiling too aggressively. A gentle boil is ideal to prevent them from breaking apart.

This Gnocchi di Spinaci recipe is a fantastic way to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. With a little practice, you’ll have this Italian classic mastered in no time. Enjoy your cooking adventure!