Name: Creamy Basil Pesto Gnocchi with Peas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound gnocchi (fresh or frozen potato gnocchi); 1 cup fresh basil leaves (washed and dried); 1/4 cup pine nuts (lightly toasted); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (good quality); 1/2 cup olive oil (extra virgin preferred); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup frozen peas (thawed or quickly blanched); salt and pepper (to taste); 1 cup heavy cream

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There’s something truly irresistible about the combination of pillowy gnocchi and vibrant basil pesto swirled into a luscious cream sauce. This Creamy Basil Pesto Gnocchi with Peas recipe brings together fresh basil, nutty pine nuts, and sweet peas, creating a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this dish is packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and utterly satisfying.

Why Cooks Rave About It

People love Creamy Basil Pesto Gnocchi with Peas for many reasons, but here are a few highlights:

Speedy yet impressive: It feels like a gourmet meal, but it’s quick enough for busy evenings.
Comfort food with a fresh twist: The creamy sauce has a rich texture, while the peas add a pop of brightness and color.
Simple ingredients, big flavor: Fresh basil and pine nuts bring vibrant herbal and nutty notes that elevate the dish.
Versatile and customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe by swapping peas for other vegetables or adding protein.
Perfectly portioned: Uses a pound of gnocchi, making it ideal for families or meal prep.

If you enjoy creamy pasta dishes, you might also want to try the Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini, which features a similarly luscious sauce with a tangy twist.

Ingredient Checklist

1 pound gnocchi: Choose fresh or frozen potato gnocchi for the best texture.
1 cup fresh basil leaves: Packed with aromatic flavor, washed and dried.
1/4 cup pine nuts: Lightly toasted for a deeper flavor.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds umami richness; make sure it’s a good quality cheese.
1/2 cup olive oil: Extra virgin preferred for its fruity, peppery notes.
2 cloves garlic: Minced to infuse the sauce with a gentle kick.
1 cup frozen peas: Thawed or quickly blanched to maintain their sweetness and texture.
Salt and pepper: To taste, balancing the pesto’s flavors.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates a silky sauce that binds everything beautifully.

Equipment & Tools

Food processor or blender: For making the smooth basil pesto.
Large pot: To boil the gnocchi.
Large skillet or sauté pan: To cook the peas and combine the sauce.
Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient amounts.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring the sauce gently.
Colander: To drain the gnocchi once cooked.

From Start to Finish: Creamy Basil Pesto Gnocchi with Peas

Step 1: Toast the Pine Nuts

Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the pine nuts and toast them for 3-4 minutes, shaking the pan frequently until they’re golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool. Toasting intensifies their nutty flavor, which is crucial in this recipe.

Step 2: Prepare the Basil Pesto

In your food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. This vibrant pesto will be the star of the sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions—usually until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon or colander to drain them, reserving a small cup of pasta water just in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 4: Sauté the Peas and Combine

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the frozen peas and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender and bright green. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Add the prepared basil pesto and stir until the sauce is smooth and heated through.

Step 5: Toss Gnocchi in the Sauce

Add the drained gnocchi to the skillet, gently tossing them in the creamy pesto sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Plate the gnocchi and peas, garnishing with extra grated Parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a simple side of roasted vegetables.

If you’re craving a seafood twist, check out the Creamy Pesto Shrimp Linguine—it carries a similar creamy pesto vibe but with succulent shrimp.

Year-Round Variations

Swap peas for asparagus or zucchini: These veggies bring a different texture and flavor profile that still complements the pesto beautifully.
Use cashews or walnuts instead of pine nuts: For a budget-friendly or allergy-sensitive alternative.
Make it vegan: Substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
Add protein: Grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or chickpeas make great additions for a fuller meal.
Try sweet potato gnocchi: For a subtly sweet and colorful twist on the classic potato version.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

When assembling this recipe, a few tips can elevate your experience:

Fresh basil is key: Using fresh, vibrant basil leaves makes a huge difference in flavor. Avoid dried or wilted leaves.
Toast pine nuts carefully: They can burn quickly, so keep an eye and stir often for even toasting.
Don’t overcook gnocchi: They’re done as soon as they float to the top; overcooking can make them mushy.
Adjust creaminess: The heavy cream adds richness, but if you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the cream and add more pesto or a splash of pasta water.
Season gradually: Taste as you go to avoid over-salting, especially since Parmesan cheese is naturally salty.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

This dish is great for meal prepping or making ahead:

Prepare the basil pesto up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Cook the gnocchi and peas separately, then combine and reheat gently in a skillet with added cream or pasta water to refresh the sauce.
For meal prep, portion into airtight containers and reheat in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce creamy.
Gnocchi can be frozen before cooking—just thaw fully before adding to the sauce for best texture.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought pesto instead of making my own?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto can be a convenient shortcut. Choose a high-quality version and adjust the amount of garlic and Parmesan you add to suit your taste. Remember to blend it with the cream and peas as in the recipe to maintain the creamy texture.

What’s the best way to reheat Creamy Basil Pesto Gnocchi with Peas?

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. This prevents the gnocchi from drying out or sticking. Microwaving works too, but stir halfway through to heat evenly.

Can I substitute the pine nuts with another nut?

Yes, walnuts or cashews are excellent alternatives and offer a slightly different but equally delicious flavor. Toast them lightly before blending with the basil and other ingredients to enhance their taste.

Is this dish suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian as it contains no meat or fish. The Parmesan cheese adds richness, but for a strict vegetarian who avoids animal rennet, be sure to choose a suitable cheese or replace it with nutritional yeast.

Next Up in Your Queue

Gnocchi Al Pomodoro – Another gnocchi favorite, this one features a bright and tangy tomato sauce that’s perfect for tomato lovers.
Creamy Pesto Shrimp Linguine – A seafood spin on creamy pesto that’s just as quick and flavorful.
Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini – A decadent pasta dish with a tomato and basil cream sauce, ideal for cozy nights.

In Closing

Creamy Basil Pesto Gnocchi with Peas is a fantastic way to enjoy the fresh flavors of basil pesto with the comforting texture of gnocchi wrapped in a silky cream sauce. Its quick preparation and balanced ingredients make it a reliable go-to for any meal occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this dish delivers warmth, flavor, and a touch of elegance without any fuss. So grab your basil, toast those pine nuts, and get ready for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious!

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