Description
This Creamy Lemon Pesto Gnocchi with Broccoli is a delightful and quick Italian-inspired main course that combines tender potato gnocchi with vibrant broccoli and a luscious lemon-infused pesto cream sauce. Perfect for a satisfying vegetarian meal, it offers a rich blend of creamy texture, fresh herbaceous flavors, and a zesty citrus kick, all cooked in one pan on the stovetop for easy cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small shallot, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups small broccoli florets
Main Ingredients
- 1 (16-ounce) package shelf-stable or refrigerated potato gnocchi
Sauces and Flavorings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup basil pesto
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves or crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced shallot and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook Gnocchi: Add the potato gnocchi to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi are lightly golden on the outside.
- Steam Broccoli: Stir in the broccoli florets and 1/4 cup water. Cover the skillet and allow the broccoli to steam for 3–4 minutes until tender and the gnocchi are cooked through.
- Prepare Lemon Pesto Cream Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, basil pesto, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring carefully, until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the gnocchi and broccoli evenly.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk to reduce richness without sacrificing creaminess.
- Frozen broccoli can be used in place of fresh; be sure to thaw and drain well before steaming.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp to increase protein and make this dish more substantial as a meal.
