Pumpkin gnocchi with butter and spinach

This pumpkin gnocchi with butter and spinach features creamy ricotta and zesty lemon, creating a comforting dish with earthy pumpkin and vibrant spinach flavors. It's perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions, easily made from scratch by forming the gnocchi and sautΓ©ing in a rich butter sauce.

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05 May 2026
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

1 onion
3 cups pumpkin
2 tbsp olive oil
1/3 cup ricotta cheese
1 egg
2/3 cup butter
2 tbsp lemon zest
2 cups spinach
Pumpkin gnocchi with butter and spinach

Pumpkin gnocchi with butter and spinach is a delightful, flavorful dish that combines the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the vibrant, green goodness of spinach. Enhanced with a touch of lemon zest and creamy ricotta, this recipe is perfect for cozy dinners and special occasions alike. Follow these steps to create a comforting, delicious meal that is bound to impress.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Peel and dice the pumpkin into small cubes.
- Finely chop the onion.
2. Cook the Pumpkin and Onion:
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced pumpkin to the skillet and cook until it's tender and easy to mash, about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Make the Pumpkin Mixture:
- Once the pumpkin is cooked, transfer the pumpkin and onion mixture to a large bowl.
- Mash the pumpkin and onion until smooth. You can use a food processor or a potato masher for this step.
- Let the mixture cool slightly.
- Add 1/3 cup of ricotta cheese and 1 beaten egg to the pumpkin mixture. Mix until everything is well combined.
4. Form the Gnocchi:
- On a floured surface, take small portions of the pumpkin mixture and roll them into ropes about 1/2 inch thick.
- Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces to form the gnocchi.
- Optional: Press each piece gently with a fork to create the traditional gnocchi ridges.
5. Cook the Gnocchi:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Drop the gnocchi into the boiling water in batches. Cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the gnocchi with a slotted spoon and set them aside.
6. Make the Butter Sauce:
- In a large skillet, melt 2/3 cup of butter over medium heat.
- Add 2 tablespoons of lemon zest and stir to combine.
- Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
7. Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the butter and spinach.
- Toss gently to coat the gnocchi with the butter sauce and to mix in the spinach.
- Serve immediately.

Pumpkin gnocchi with butter and spinach is a comforting dish that balances rich and creamy textures with fresh, zesty flavors. By following these tips and instructions, you'll be able to create a memorable, homemade meal that showcases the best of seasonal produce. Enjoy your culinary creation with friends and family, and savor the satisfaction of making this delicious dish from scratch!

Pumpkin gnocchi with butter and spinach FAQ:

How long does it take to cook the pumpkin for the gnocchi?

Cook the diced pumpkin for about 10-15 minutes until it is tender and easy to mash. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

What size should I cut the gnocchi pieces?

Cut the rolled ropes of pumpkin mixture into 1-inch pieces to form the gnocchi.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the ricotta cheese with another creamy cheese like mascarpone or cottage cheese. For a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based cheese.

How do I know when the gnocchi are fully cooked?

The gnocchi are ready when they float to the surface of the boiling water, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes.

How should I store leftover gnocchi?

Store leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, sautΓ© them in butter or olive oil in a skillet until warmed through.

Cooking Tips:

- Ensure the pumpkin is cooked until very soft before mashing it to achieve a smooth gnocchi dough.

- Use a light touch when combining ingredients to prevent the dough from becoming too dense.

- If your dough seems too sticky, gradually add a little flour until it reaches a workable consistency.

- Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon zest to suit your preferences.

- Cook the gnocchi in small batches to prevent them from sticking together in the pot.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 360kcal
Protein 6g
Carbohydrates 11g
Fiber 1.45g
Sugar 5g
Fat 40g

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