Pumpkin gnocchi with rocket and walnut pesto

Discover the earthy flavors of homemade Pumpkin Gnocchi paired with a zesty Rocket and Walnut Pesto. Made with fresh potatoes, pumpkin, arugula, and parmesan, this recipe is a wholesome and delicious delight perfect for any meal. Easy to prepare and rich in nutrients, it’s a savory treat for your taste buds.

11 Jun 2025
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 60 min

Ingredients:

2 potatoes
2 cups pumpkin
2 cups all-purpose white wheat flour
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
5 cups arugula
1/2 cup walnuts
2 garlic cloves
1/2 cup olive oil
Pumpkin gnocchi with rocket and walnut pesto

Pumpkin gnocchi with rocket and walnut pesto is a delightful dish that combines the comforting texture of gnocchi with the fresh, zesty flavor of rocket (arugula) pesto. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner that feels both hearty and healthy, weaving together the earthy tones of pumpkin and walnuts with the sharpness of parmesan and the richness of olive oil.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables for Gnocchi:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the diced potatoes and pumpkin to the boiling water. Cook until tender, about 15 minutes.
- Drain the vegetables and allow them to cool slightly.
2. Mash the Vegetables:
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the cooked potatoes and pumpkin until smooth. You can use a potato masher or a ricer for this.
3. Form the Gnocchi Dough:
- Add the flour and grated parmesan cheese to the mashed vegetables. Mix until a soft dough forms.
4. Shape the Gnocchi:
- Lightly flour a work surface. Divide the dough into smaller portions.
- Roll each portion into long ropes of about 1/2-inch thickness.
- Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces. You can gently press the pieces with a fork to create ridges, if desired.
5. Cook the Gnocchi:
- Bring another large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Drop the gnocchi into the boiling water. Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- The gnocchi are ready when they float to the surface, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside.
6. Prepare the Rocket and Walnut Pesto:
- In a food processor, combine the arugula, walnuts, and garlic cloves. Pulse until finely chopped.
- With the processor running, gradually add the olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine Gnocchi and Pesto:
- In a large serving bowl, gently toss the gnocchi with the rocket and walnut pesto until well coated.
8. Serve:
- Serve the gnocchi immediately, garnished with additional grated parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Tips:

- Make sure to use starchy potatoes for the gnocchi to ensure a light and fluffy texture. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best.

- When boiling the potatoes, start them in cold water to cook them more evenly and avoid a gummy texture.

- Drain the potatoes and pumpkin well after cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can make the dough too sticky.

- Toast the walnuts lightly before blending them into the pesto to enhance their flavor and add a richer taste to the dish.

- When forming the gnocchi, handle the dough as little as possible to maintain its light texture.

- If the gnocchi dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be cautious—too much flour can result in dense gnocchi.

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

Pumpkin gnocchi with rocket and walnut pesto is a unique and mouth-watering dish that showcases the versatility of simple, fresh ingredients. With a bit of preparation and some careful cooking, you can create a meal that is both comforting and elegant. Enjoy this delightful blend of flavors and textures with family and friends for a memorable dining experience.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 560kcal
Protein 18g
Carbohydrates 77g
Fiber 7g
Sugar 3.93g
Fat 55g

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