Description
Creamy Lemon Pesto Gnocchi with Broccoli is the perfect comfort food with a refreshing twist. The soft, pillowy gnocchi is coated in a rich, creamy pesto sauce with a zesty lemon kick. Paired with tender broccoli, this dish is a deliciously balanced meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor. It’s an excellent choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat!
Ingredients
Scale
For the gnocchi and broccoli:
- 1 pound gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- Salt, to taste
For the creamy lemon pesto sauce:
- 1/4 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the gnocchi:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the top). Once cooked, drain the gnocchi, reserving a bit of pasta water for the sauce if needed, and set aside. - Blanch the broccoli:
In the same pot of boiling water, add the broccoli florets and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until just tender. Drain the broccoli and set aside with the gnocchi. - Make the creamy lemon pesto sauce:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the pesto and sauté for 1 minute, allowing it to release its aroma.
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese (if using), lemon zest, and lemon juice. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce is creamy and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Combine the gnocchi and broccoli with the sauce:
Add the cooked gnocchi and broccoli to the skillet with the creamy lemon pesto sauce. Gently toss to coat the gnocchi and broccoli in the sauce, adding a little reserved pasta water if the sauce needs to be thinned. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, until everything is heated through and well combined. - Serve:
Plate the creamy lemon pesto gnocchi and broccoli. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of pesto, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- You can add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- If you prefer a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cream and skip the Parmesan cheese.
- You can adjust the amount of lemon to suit your taste, adding more zest or juice for a stronger lemon flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg