How to make a Squash & Spinach Gnocchi

A nice simple gnocchi recipe. We have the standard version available but this is one that uses the starchy water from cooking the gnocchi to create velvety sauce finish.

serves 4: Preparation time: 30 minutes; Cooking time: 20 minutes; Total time: 50 minutes. 

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked butternut squash, mashed
• 2 cups cooked spinach, chopped and drained
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 large eggs
• Extra flour for dusting
• Optional toppings: melted butter, sage leaves, grated Parmesan cheese

Preparation:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed butternut squash, chopped spinach, flour, Parmesan cheese, salt, and nutmeg. Mix well until a dough forms.
2. Make a well in the center of the dough and crack the eggs into it. Beat the eggs lightly with a fork, then gradually incorporate them into the dough until well combined. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
3. Lightly flour a clean surface and transfer the dough onto it. Divide the dough into small portions.
4. Take one portion of dough and roll it into a long rope, about 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) thick. Repeat with the remaining portions of dough.
5. Cut the ropes into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces. Optional: Roll each piece over a fork or gnocchi board to create ridges.
6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the gnocchi into the boiling water in small batches.
7. Cook the gnocchi until they rise to the surface, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Once they float, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
8. Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked gnocchi from the water and transfer them to a plate or serving dish.
9. If desired, drizzle the cooked gnocchi with melted butter, sautéed sage leaves, and grated Parmesan cheese.
10. Serve the squash and spinach gnocchi hot and enjoy!

Note: You can also freeze the uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag for later use. To cook frozen gnocchi, simply boil them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.